Health questions. We all have them. Where do you go when searching for an answer to a health question in the middle of the night? 

Some people seek comfort on the internet, but most questions are better answered by a health professional.  Our “cough-and-click” culture can easily lead to misinformation or even a self-diagnosis of a condition that you don’t have.

When it comes to your health, a health care professional is always your first call, even after office hours for your doctor.

Many primary care doctors have an after-hours number you can call. There will be a doctor or nurse on call to check messages. Ask your doctor’s office about how after-hours calls are handled. Then add the after-hours phone number to your phone’s contacts list.

Most HMO plans require medical offices to have after-hours service. If you have an HMO plan, start there. That way you’ll know that you’re paying the least amount out of pocket.

We’re on the Line

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas members with a PPO plan can talk to a registered nurse by calling the 24/7 Nurseline. The Nurseline number is listed on your member ID card.  When you call , you’ll reach a nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

The 24/7 Nurseline’s registered nurses can talk with you about your health issue and let you know if there is something you can do at home, or let you know your other options for immediate care.

Our nurses can help you get answers to health problem you or a covered family member may be having, such as:

• Asthma flare-ups
• Back pain
• Issues from a chronic illness, like diabetes or heart problems
• Dizziness or severe headaches
• High fever
• Cuts or burns
• Sore throat
• COVID -19 concerns, symptoms and education

Plus, when you call, you will have access to an audio library of more than 300 health topics—from allergies to women’s health—in English and in Spanish. 24/7 Nursline also has a service that can screen for and refer you to Disease Management and/or Case Management if you qualify.

Get the information you need, just when you need it. In fact, add the number on the back of your ID card to your phone contacts so you can have easy access to the 24/7 Nurseline.

Other options

You also have other options that will keep you out of the emergency room. Many cities have an urgent care center that stays open late. Some telehealth companies also offer around the clock access to a health professional by phone or video chat.

When it is an emergency, you should always call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.  

• The U.S. Library of Medicine  lists these and more as health issues you should consider an emergency:Loss of consciousness
• Broken bone, bad burns or other severe injury
• Trouble breathing
• Heavy bleeding that won’t stop
• Extreme chest pain

Learn more about where to go for care.

Source: Recognizing Medical Emergencies, Medline Plus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2020

Originally Published: May 28, 2015; Revised 2019