Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1182674
"The better relationship you have with your primary care physician, the better they can serve you when you need something." Head injuries, even if they appear innocuous, should also be immediately checked at an ER. Make note of the urgent care and convenience care clinics that are closest to your home and work. The next time you face an unanticipated medical event, be prepared. Start by finding a PCP or strengthening your relationship with your existing doctor. Have the phone number saved and ready to go in your mobile phone, so you can easily access your doctor. Many practices have coverage for non-office hours, so you likely can reach your doctor or a close colleague with access to your records when you need them. You can get further prepared by downloading the Doctor On Demand app from the App Store or Google store. In the app, you can make note of the urgent care and convenience care clinics that are closest to your home and work, including their hours of operation. If your PCP is not available, use this handy guide as reference to know when to go to urgent or convenience care, and when the emergency room is necessary: Get healthy. Get HaPi. Learn more about trending topics and our health plan offerings at HarvardPilgrim.org. • Cold or flu-like symptoms • Eye and ear issues • Asthma and allergies • Rashes, hives, sunburn, and other skin issues • Urinary tract infections • Sinus or congestion issues • Headaches or migraines • Stress and anxiety • Upset stomach • Immediate advice for minor ailments or conditions • Prescription refills • Review multiple medications Consider Telemedicine • No access to a PCP • Sprains and strains • Infections • Minor injuries • Minor burns • Rashes • Bites • Cuts • Bruises • Eye and ear infections • Strep throat • Skin conditions like poison ivy or ringworm Consider Urgent Care • Potentially life-threatening events • Choking • Convulsions • Severe abdominal pain • Seizures • Stroke • Shock • Heart attack • Major blood loss • Head injury or trauma • Loss of consciousness • Overdose • Car accidents • Dizziness or faintness (when paired with high blood pressure, cholesterol, or other risks of heart attack and stroke) Go to the Emergency Room A D V E R T I S E M E N T