It's late at night, or during a weekend or holiday, and you feel really awful. Your usual health care provider/clinic is not open - what should you do? The emergency department of the local hospital is open, of course. Should you seek treatment there or wait to see your family doctor?

ILLNESS/INJURIES NOT CONSIDERED URGENT

No one enjoys being sick and it certainly can be anxiety producing to be ill and not know the cause or seriousness, but the ER isn't appropriate for EVERY health concern. One reason is continuity and quality of care. Your family doctor knows your medical history and is familiar with your health care needs and concerns. He is in a better position to provide any necessary follow-up care. In addition, you are comfortable with him and his recommendations for treatment. 

Another point is that a visit to the emergency department can cost quite a bit more than a trip to your usual health care provider. Insurance plans vary from policy to policy in terms of amounts and services allowed, but generally speaking, most carriers will not pay for a non-emergent visit. Additionally, if your carrier is managed care (HMO, PPO, Health America), you may have to call your PCP (primary care physician, your family doctor), or the insurance company before going to the ER or shortly thereafter. 

In general, the ER is reserved for people who are seriously ill or injured, but how do you know what is or is not serious? Some health systems offer free 800 phone numbers to customers on a 24-hour a day basis, with a nurse available to answer questions and offer recommendations. Listed below are some guidelines to follow in determining what types of illness/injuries need to go to the Emergency Department:

ILLNESS/INJURIES CONSIDERED 
AN EMERGENCY