WINTER 2026
A Quarterly Benefits Publication from the Administrative Office
pension • health & welfare • vacation • annuity
CHOOSING BETWEEN THE ER, URGENT CARE, AND TELEHEALTH SERVICES
When you need treatment for a minor illness or injury, what type of facility will you go to? No one knows and understands your unique medical situation better than your personal primary care physician. However, in circumstances where your primary care provider is unavailable, it may be advisable to visit a local urgent care center or utilize telehealth services. For life threatening or serious emergencies, a visit to the emergency room (ER) is appropriate.
Normally, emergency rooms (ERs) are for very serious or life-threatening problems. However, up to nearly 40 percent of visits to an emergency room are not medical emergencies. In fact, fewer than 2 out of 10 visits to an ER result in admission to a hospital or critical-care unit. The fact that most patients visit the ER after regular business hours seems to suggest that ER visits are due mostly to convenience. Unnecessary emergency room visits increase out-ofpocket costs for patients and strain resources for critically ill individuals. To better assist you in choosing the type of care for your needs, please refer to the following guide and cost share information.
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Options for Care Primary Care Physician
Urgent Care Facility
Telehealth Provider
Emergency Room
• Cold and flu symptoms • Mild respiratory infections • Minor injuries, sprains, cuts, or burns • Regular physicals, screenings and vaccinations • Medication refills • Health concerns requiring professional advice and management
• Cold and flu symptoms • Mild respiratory infections or wheezing • Ear pain • Minor injuries, sprains, cuts, or burns • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea • Migraines • Allergic reactions • Rashes • Infections • Urinary tract infections (UTI)
• Cold and flu symptoms • Mild respiratory or sinus infections • Minor allergic reactions • Mild skin issues or rashes • Pink eye • Urinary tract infections (UTI)
• Chest pain • Difficulty breathing • Severe abdominal pain • Coughing or vomiting blood • Severe burns • Deep cuts or bleeding that won't stop • Sudden blurred vision • Trauma or injury from a fall or accident
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» GUIDANCE RESOURCES » HOMEMADE X VIRTA
Retirees, look for your 1099-R forms in the mail at the end of January.