Enjoy more fun in the sun

Summer is here! Know your options when an illness or injury occurs so you can spend more time doing what you love and less time in a waiting room.

When a life-threatening illness or injury occurs, there’s no better place than the ER, but did you know that, according to the New England Health Institute, 56% of all ER visits are avoidable? Understanding your options before you get sick can save time, money and frustration. Whether it’s a nasty sunburn, an upset stomach or an ear infection, you have choices for treatment when a non-life-threatening illness or injury occurs.

ER alternatives

Telehealth: Real-time virtual visits with your PCP via phone, tablet, or computer. You’ll pay PCP-level cost sharing for telemedicine services.

You can seek support for symptoms that include but are not limited to:

• Coughs/colds
• Sore/strep throat
• Flu
• Pediatric issues
• Sinus and allergies
• Nausea and diarrhea
• Rashes and skin issues
• Women’s health: UTIs, yeast infections
• Sports injuries
• Eye issues

Urgently needed care: Urgent care facilities provide treatment for minor and moderate illnesses and injuries that require urgent attention but are not life threatening.

Covered services include but are not limited to the following:

• Care for minor cuts, burns, rashes, bites, bruises or abrasions, including suturing
• Treatment for minor illnesses and infections, including coughs, cold and flu
• Treatment for minor injuries including sprains or strains

Discover which route is right for you before you need it. As always, ask your provider if they accept Medicare.