Author Archive

Recognizing Domestic Abuse

2021 December, Lifestyle and Wellness March 18, 2025

Abuse can be difficult to spot, and often those suffering may not be able to see it, or may not want to admit it. Domestic abuse or violence refers to abuse, whether physical, sexual, or emotional, from someone in your life. Often this abuse goes unreported due to fear or wanting to protect the abuser.

Sign of domestic abuse from a partner include:

  • Verbal abuse such as insulting, demeaning, or shaming you
  • Extreme jealousy
  • Preventing or discouraging you from spending time with family or friends
  • Intimidation or threats
  • Any physical violence or destruction of belongings

If you’re worried that a friend, coworker, or family member might be in a harmful situation, your first instinct might be to intervene directly. However, that can cause more harm than good. Rather, consider these steps:

  • Ask them in a private setting if they are safe
  • Provide resources such as The National Domestic Violence Hotline*
  • Offer to drive them to a local shelter
  • Help them file for a restraining order
  • Call the police if you suspect someone is in immediate danger of being harmed

If you suspect a friend, coworker, or family member of being an abuser, hold them accountable. Help them find treatment, but let them know there are no excuses for abuse.

*A list of additional resources: 

The National Domestic Violence Hotline: Available by phone, chat, or text at any time. 

A list of local resources organized by state and territory. 

The Department of Justice Domestic Violence homepage. 

Information on Protecting Yourself and Your Children from Domestic Violence. 

Content by Lockton Dunning Benefits with info from https://www.thehotline.org/get-help/

Healthcare Transparency

2025 January, Benefit Spotlight December 23, 2024

Healthcare costs in the United States have long been a source of frustration for patients, with many unaware of the price of medical services until they receive a bill. This lack of transparency can lead to unexpected financial burdens, making it difficult for patients to make informed decisions about their care.

In recent years, there has been a growing push for cost transparency, driven by both consumers and policymakers. The goal is to give patients access to clear and accurate pricing information before they receive services, allowing them to compare costs and make choices that align with their budgets.

Several initiatives have emerged to promote transparency, such as the Affordable Care Act’s requirement for hospitals to publish standard pricing data, and new tools that allow consumers to estimate their out-of-pocket costs based on their insurance plans. These efforts aim to reduce the surprise medical bills that often result from unforeseen treatments or out-of-network charges.

Cost transparency can empower patients to take control of their healthcare spending, improve competition among providers, and ultimately drive down prices. As the demand for transparency grows, it could reshape the way we think about and interact with healthcare, fostering a more patient-centered and cost-efficient system.

Understanding Respiratory Virus Season

2025 January, Lifestyle and Wellness December 23, 2024

From late fall to early spring, we often hear people refer to these cooler months of the year as respiratory virus season.

This is the period where various viruses that affect the respiratory system become more prevalent, and you see an uptick in certain conditions, including:

  • Influenza (Flu): The flu is highly contagious and can lead to severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly, young children, and those with chronic or underlying health conditions. Symptoms usually include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): RSV is an infection in the lungs and respiratory tract that commonly effects infants, young children, and people over 75. RSV can lead to bronchiolitis and pneumonia in severe cases. Symptoms can range from mild cold-like signs to more severe breathing difficulties.
  • Common Cold Viruses: The common cold infects the nose, sinuses, and throat, and it can be spread through droplets in the air or on surfaces. Symptoms typically include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, and cough. While usually mild, colds can contribute to more serious respiratory issues, especially in those with existing health problems.
  • Coronaviruses: Before the pandemic, coronaviruses were already known to cause common colds. However, the emergence of COVID-19 brought significant attention to this virus.

Factors Contributing to Respiratory Virus Season

Several factors contribute to the increase in respiratory viruses during this time of year, such as changes in the weather and temperatures, family members returning to school or work, and holiday gatherings.

Colder temperatures and lower humidity can dry out the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract and make it easier for viruses to enter the body. Additionally, people tend to spend more time indoors, increasing the chances of virus transmission in close quarters.

With children returning to school, there is a higher likelihood of spreading viruses. Schools and daycare centers can become hotbeds for respiratory infections since kids are often in close contact with one another.

The holiday season is known for large gatherings and bringing friends and family together. This creates opportunities for viruses to spread, especially paired with travel and shared meals.

Spending more time indoors increases the chances of virus transmission in close quarters.

Prevention Strategies

Some ways you can help reduce your risk of getting sick include:

  • Vaccination: Getting your flu and COVID-19 vaccine is one of the most effective ways to prevent getting sick. The flu and COVID-19 are known for their ability to mutate, which is why annual vaccinations are recommended. In some cases, vaccines are also available for RSV, especially for high-risk infants.
  • Good Hygiene: Regular hand washing with soap and water can help eliminate viruses, along with using hand sanitizer and avoiding touching your face and covering coughs and sneezes to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Stay Home When Sick: If you or a family member show symptoms, stay home to prevent spreading illness to others.
  • Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can strengthen your immune system, making it more resilient against infections.

Respiratory virus season is a challenging time for many, but recognizing contributing factors and doing your part to prevent the spread can help communities better navigate the season.

Source:

https://www.tuftsmedicine.org/about-us/news/your-guide-seasonal-respiratory-illnesses

https://www.lung.org/blog/respiratory-virus-season-prevention

https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/vaccines/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/covid/vaccines/stay-up-to-date.html

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

2025 January, Lifestyle and Wellness December 23, 2024

Many types of trauma are temporary. However, some forms of trauma can be chronic and ongoing. A person may endure certain traumatic experiences repeatedly for months or even years.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can arise from any type of trauma — a car accident, natural disaster, or near-death experience — but Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) typically develops from long-term or repeated trauma, such as:

  • Domestic violence
  • Childhood neglect or abuse
  • War
  • Torture, sex trafficking, or slavery
  • Sexual abuse

Paired with experiencing a traumatic event, other factors can increase someone’s risk of developing C-PTSD, including that harm coming from someone they trusted or feeling they were unable to escape the repeated trauma.

Understanding C-PTSD and the Symptoms

C-PTSD is more than just feeling sad or scared. It can affect how a person thinks, feels, and acts. According to the Cleveland Clinic, C-PTSD is a newer diagnosis and research is lacking on how common the condition is, but experts estimate that it may affect 1–8% of the world’s population.

People with C-PTSD might experience a variety of symptoms, such as:

  • Reliving the traumatic events, as if they are happening all over again, through flashbacks.
  • Avoiding places, people, or situations that remind them of the trauma.
  • Having feelings of hopelessness or believing that they are worthless.
  • Feeling very angry, sad, or anxious most of the time, or sometimes feeling numb.

People experiencing C-PTSD typically have additional symptoms, such as chronic issues with emotion regulation, identity and sense of self, and relationships.

How Can People Get Help?

There’s no specific test to diagnose C-PTSD, but it’s important for anyone who thinks they might have C-PTSD to talk to a mental health professional, like a therapist or counselor. They can determine a diagnosis by discussing your symptoms, medical history, mental health history, and any exposure to trauma.

3.8% of the adult population in the United States has complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD).

Some ways to get help include:

  • Therapy: This can include cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), or dialectical behavior therapy
  • Support Groups: Meeting others who have similar experiences can provide comfort and understanding.
  • Self-Care: Taking care of oneself through exercise, hobbies, and spending time with friends can also help improve mood.
  • Medication: A healthcare professional may prescribe antidepressants, anxiety medication, or sleep aids to help with recovery and treatment.

If you or someone you know is facing difficulties, it’s crucial to reach out for help and know that it’s okay to talk about it. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Source:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cptsd-vs-ptsd

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24881-cptsd-complex-ptsd

Setting Realistic Health Goals

2025 January, Lifestyle and Wellness December 23, 2024

In a world full of quick fixes and perfect images, it can feel overwhelming when you want to transform your lifestyle into a healthier one. Setting goals in place that are realistic and attainable can allow you to build a clear path to improvement, stay motivated, and ensure the progress you make is meaningful so the habits you create last a lifetime.

Goals are an important tool in many aspects of life — career, financial, travel — and your health is no exception. When it comes to taking care of yourself, setting attainable and sustainable goals can help improve your quality of life.

Goals You Can Set

Everyone’s health journey is unique, and you should set goals tailored to fit your lifestyle and preferences so it’s easier to stay committed.

Move Daily — Try to get at least 45 minutes of moderate exercise each day. This doesn’t have to be done in a single 45-minute session. In fact, you may be more successful if you break it up throughout the day. Try stretching for 10 minutes in the morning, taking a 15-minute walk after lunch, finding a set of stairs to climb for 5 minutes during the workday, dancing to a 5-minute song in the evening, and stretching for another 10 minutes while winding down and watching your favorite TV show. Remember, activities like housecleaning and gardening also count.

Prioritize Quality Sleep — For many of us, it’s rare to get enough sleep in today’s fast-paced world. Sleep is oftentimes one of the first things to get deprioritized when life gets hectic. Setting a goal to go to bed at a certain time or get a set number of hours of sleep, can have positive effects on both your physical and mental health. Ways to support getting better sleep include establishing a consistent bedtime routine and reducing screen time an hour before going to sleep.

Upgrade Your Nutrition — When looking to improve eating habits, many immediately think of restrictive dieting and cutting out most of the foods you enjoy. However, a realistic and impactful change you can make is ADDING to your meals versus depriving yourself. For example, if you love having a burger and fries, consider adding a side salad for more fiber, including colorful ingredients (lettuce, onion, tomato) to your burger, and opting for sweet potato fries and a whole wheat bun. You can satisfy your craving while also getting essential carbs, protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Set a goal to make healthier swaps and incorporate more nutrient-dense foods.

Don’t Skip Preventative Care — Have you missed your annual physical? When was the last time you visited the dentist or had routine bloodwork done? Staying up-to-date on preventative care and health screenings is valuable in the long run and may help you avoid chronic illness or catch a more severe situation early on.

One in four U.S. adults are sitting for longer than eight hours each day, and this lack of activity is bad for mental and physical health.

But don’t stop there, the list of possibilities goes on:

  • Getting outside a couple times a day for fresh air and some vitamin D — but don’t skip the SPF!
  • Setting aside 10 minutes during the day to practice meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing.
  • Reducing the amount of time spent scrolling on your phone or browsing social media.
  • Upping your water intake in the morning and around meal and snack times.

And finally, consider a goal to not throw in the towel when things get hard. We all go through chaotic times and difficult seasons, but having realistic health goals in place can help you navigate obstacles by providing a sense of purpose and focus. Working toward a goal, even a small one, can boost your self-esteem and remind you that you can accomplish more.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness/10-ways-to-move-more

https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/why-you-should-move-even-just-a-little-throughout-the-day

https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2021/04/good-sleep-good-health

https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/how-can-i-eat-more-nutrient-dense-foods

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/fiber/art-20043983

https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/prevention/preventive-care.html

Understanding the HPV Vaccine

2024 December, Lifestyle and Wellness November 18, 2024

The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine helps protect against certain types of HPV. HPV can lead to various cancers, including cervical, anal, vaginal, vulvar, penile, and oropharyngeal (throat).

The HPV vaccine is typically administered as a series of shots over several months, with the specific schedule based on the type.

Gardasil 9: This vaccine protects against nine types of HPV, including those most likely to cause cancers and genital warts. The standard schedule is two doses given six to twelve months apart for individuals starting the series before their 15th birthday. Three doses are recommended for those starting the series at age 15 or older, or for individuals who are immunocompromised.

Cervarix: This vaccine protects against two types of HPV (types 16 and 18) that cause most cervical cancers. It’s approved for use in females only. Cervarix is also given in a series of three shots over six months.

Overall, the HPV vaccine is widely available and recommended for adolescents and young adults, ideally before they become sexually active, to maximize its effectiveness in preventing HPV-related cancers.

The HPV vaccine is usually administered in the upper arm or thigh, depending on the recipient’s age.

Cost of the HPV Vaccine

Most health insurance plans cover the HPV vaccine as part of routine preventive care, especially for adolescents and young adults, without charging a copayment or coinsurance, as long as an in-network provider provides the services. However, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs associated with the vaccine.

Protecting Against HPV

Vaccination remains the most effective and reliable method for preventing HPV infection and its potential complications. The following can also help reduce the risk of HPV infection and its associated health consequences:

  • Using condoms during sexual activity can reduce the risk of HPV transmission. While condoms may not provide complete protection against HPV, they can significantly lower the risk of infection.
  • Regular screenings for HPV-related cancers, such as Pap smears for cervical cancer, can help detect abnormalities early and facilitate timely treatment.

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/hpv/parents/vaccine/six-reasons.html

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/hpv/public/index.html

https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/fact-sheet/the-hpv-vaccine-access-and-use-in-the-u-s/. (Vaccine financing section specifically)

https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/human-papillomavirus

https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biologics/vaccines/cervarix

https://www.gardasil9.com/patient-a

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/hpv/public/index.html

Medical Transportation

2024 December, Benefit Spotlight November 18, 2024

Ambulance and helicopter services are crucial components of emergency medical response in the United States.

However, insurance coverage for these services can vary depending on several factors, including the type of insurance plan, the specific provider network, and the circumstances surrounding someone’s need for transport.

Ambulance Services Coverage

Most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover ambulance services when they are deemed medically necessary. This typically includes transportation to a hospital in case of a medical emergency.

Like other medical services, ambulance companies may be in-network or out-of-network with specific insurance providers. In-network providers usually have negotiated rates with insurance companies, leading to lower out-of-pocket costs for the insured individual.

Some insurance plans may limit the number of ambulance rides covered per year or require pre-authorization for non-emergency transportation.

 

Air Ambulance (Helicopter) Services Coverage

Air ambulance services, often provided by helicopters, are typically used for transporting patients in remote or inaccessible areas or for rapid transport in critical medical situations. These services can be costly.

While many health insurance plans provide coverage for air ambulance services, there can be significant challenges. Some plans may only cover some of the costs, leaving patients with substantial out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, air ambulance providers may not always be in-network with insurance plans, leading to higher patient costs.

Ambulance and helicopter medical care are typically reserved for situations where rapid transportation to a medical facility is necessary due to the severity or urgency of the medical condition, including:

  • Heart attacks
  • Stroke
  • Hemorrhaging
  • Severe trauma (car accidents, falls)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Respiratory failure
  • Injuries from natural disasters
  • Wilderness emergencies
  • Transfer of patients between hospitals for specialized care not available at the initial facility (e.g., transfer to a stroke center or a cardiac care center)

In these situations, ambulance services are typically utilized for ground transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility.

Helicopter medical transport is often deployed when ground transportation is too slow or impractical due to distance, traffic conditions, or terrain obstacles.

Individuals should review their insurance plans carefully and understand the coverage limitations and potential out-of-pocket costs associated with ambulance and air ambulance services.

Source:

https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/ambulance-services

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/health-insurance/insurance-for-ambulance-rides/

https://www.thebalancemoney.com/does-your-insurance-cover-an-air-ambulance-2645679

https://www.opic.texas.gov/news/air-ambulances/

Essential Oils Safely

2024 December, Lifestyle and Wellness November 18, 2024

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that capture the aromatic compounds and essence of the plant, and they’re often used in aromatherapy, skincare, and sometimes in cleaning products.

Essential oils have gained popularity in the health industry for their potential therapeutic benefits (promoting relaxation, stress reduction, etc.), and some are also believed to have antibacterial, antifungal, or anti-inflammatory properties, leading to their use in natural remedies for various health issues.

More research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential and safety of essential oils for various health conditions, but here are some areas where research has explored the medicinal properties of essential oils:

  • Antimicrobial Properties: Several essential oils, including tea tree oil, oregano oil, and thyme oil, have demonstrated antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses in laboratory studies. These oils may have potential applications in treating infections, wound healing, and controlling microbial growth in various settings.
  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: Certain essential oils, such as lavender oil, chamomile oil, and frankincense oil, have been studied for their anti-inflammatory properties. These oils may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, skin inflammation, and respiratory inflammation.
  • Analgesic (Pain-Relieving) Effects: Some essential oils, including peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, and lavender oil, have been investigated for their analgesic effects. These oils may help relieve pain and discomfort associated with headaches, muscle soreness, and other painful conditions when applied topically or inhaled.
  • Anxiolytic (Anxiety-Reducing) Effects: Aromatherapy with certain essential oils, such as lavender oil, bergamot oil, and chamomile oil, has been studied for its potential to reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress. Inhalation or topical application of these oils may promote relaxation and improve mood.
  • Sleep Promotion: Lavender oil is one of the most extensively studied essential oils for its effects on sleep. Research suggests that inhalation of lavender oil may improve sleep quality and duration, reduce insomnia symptoms, and promote relaxation before bedtime.
  • Digestive Health: Some essential oils, such as peppermint oil, ginger oil, and fennel oil, have been investigated for their potential to alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and indigestion. These oils may help reduce abdominal pain, bloating, and discomfort.

The controversy surrounding essential oils mainly concerns their safety, effectiveness, and marketing claims. While some people in your life and on the internet may promote and recommend essential oils for different health and wellness purposes, not all claims about essential oils are backed by robust scientific evidence. Essential oils are not regulated as rigorously as pharmaceutical drugs, and there may be variability in the purity and potency of commercial essential oil products.

Only use essential oils for their intended use under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially for therapeutic purposes, to ensure safety. Be aware of potential interactions with medications or adverse effects, especially when ingesting or applying them directly to the skin.

Source:

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/aromatherapy-do-essential-oils-really-work

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31851445/

https://www.lung.org/blog/essential-oils-harmful-or-helpful

https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-essential-oils

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/do-essential-oils-work-heres-what-science-says/

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria

2024 December, Lifestyle and Wellness November 18, 2024

No one craves rejection, and there’s a reason the phrase fear of rejection exists. Rejection can leave you asking a nagging list of questions, along with feelings of shame, anxiety, embarrassment, sadness, and even anger.

You can experience the stages of grief when you experience rejection and internalize it even when you know you shouldn’t (Why wasn’t I good enough? What’s wrong with me?).

While rejection is something everyone experiences, it can be particularly intense for those with a condition known as Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), which is linked to ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. According to the Cleveland Clinic, experts suspect RSD is due to brain structure differences where you’re unable to regulate rejection-related feelings, intensifying the emotions.

RSD Symptoms

RSD is more than being sensitive. The intense emotions can cause significant distress, including symptoms like:

  • Feeling embarrassed or self-conscious more easily
  • Difficulty believing in themselves
  • Low self-esteem
  • Engaging in negative self-talk
  • Being short tempered
  • Lashing out in anger or crying outbursts to rejection-related emotions
  • Snapping onsets of depression or moodiness
  • People-pleasing tendencies
  • Avoiding activities where there’s an opportunity to fail
  • Striving for all-out perfectionism
  • Defensiveness
  • Thought rumination

Impact on Relationships

RSD can cause strain on interpersonal relationships. According to Psychology Today, a person may grow timid and afraid of sharing their real feelings, escalate conflicts with anger that feels out of proportion to the situation, and attempt to keep their partner on a tighter and tighter leash because they are terrified that their partner will leave them otherwise.

RSD Diagnosis

According to the Cleveland Clinic, RSD isn’t recognized as a medical condition, and much research remains to better understand its prevalence. As such, many providers may not diagnose RSD and mistake it for other conditions it can resemble at times, including:

 

  • Bipolar disorder
  • Borderline personality Disorder
  • Social anxiety disorder
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Depression

 

Treating RSD

If you suspect you have RSD, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider about your symptoms, take any medications that are part of your treatment plan, find a therapist to help you manage RSD behaviors, prioritize self-care, and be kinder to yourself.

Finding ways to cope and manage your overall stress level can help, so exercise, diet, and sleep play an important role. Learning to take time and process emotions before acting out in response.

It’s also important to understand the triggers, including:

  • Real or perceived rejection and failure
  • Teasing
  • Criticism (including constructive)

While RSD on its own isn’t life-threatening, the symptoms — like depression and anxiety — can lead to overwhelming emotional pain and risks of self-harm. In these situations, the following resources can offer support:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Dial 988)
  • Local crisis lines in your area
  • 911 if you or someone you know are in immediate danger of self-harm or suicide

Source:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24099-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-rsd

https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/friendship-20/201907/what-is-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria

https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria

https://psychcentral.com/adhd/what-is-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria

https://www.verywellhealth.com/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-5224953

https://neurodivergentinsights.com/blog/how-to-deal-with-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria

https://www.npr.org/2023/11/03/1200586419/why-rejection-hurts-so-much-and-how-to-cope

Where to Go for Care

2024 July, Benefit Spotlight June 24, 2024

We have so many options for medical care these days that it is important to understand the types of care, when it’s appropriate for each type, the impacts on the time it may take to get care, and how much that care may cost.

Nurse Lines – This is a great resource if you need a quick answer to a health issue that doesn’t require immediate medical treatment. They are typically free as a part of your medical insurance and available 24/7. Nurse Lines can answer questions about your symptoms, self-care/home treatments, medications and side effect, and can help you decide when to seek care.

Telemedicine – This resource can be used when you need care for minor illnesses and aliments but would prefer not to or cannot leave home since they are offered by phone or online if you have access to a webcam. Some telemedicine visits can even be scheduled outside of normal doctor’s hours. There are usually copays or flat fees for these types of visits, but they often give you immediate access to care and in some cases in some states can provide prescriptions. Best used for cold & flu symptoms, bronchitis, urinary tract infections, and sinus infections.

Primary Care Center – Use this resource for routine care or treatment of current health issues. Your primary care doctor knows you and your health history and can provide help with most of your care and prescription needs. Appointments usually are required and can come with wait time once in the office. Copays and/or coinsurance typically applies. Use your primary care center for routine checkups, immunizations, preventive services, and managing your general health.

Urgent Care Center – This resource is used when you need care quickly but is not a true emergency. They offer treatment for non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses like strains, sprains, minor broken bones, and minor infections or burns. These visits are subject to copay and/or coinsurance and can be more costly that a primary care center visit. Walk-ins are welcome but may have long wait times.

Emergency Room – Save an emergency room (ER) visit for when you need immediate treatment for a serious life-threatening condition such as heavy bleeding, chest pain, major burns, or severe head injuries. These visits are often far more costly than seeing your primary care center and are subject to copay and/or coinsurance. ERs are open 24/7 but come with long wait times since life-threatening emergencies will be seen first. ER visit may also come with ambulance charges that are not covered by insurance or may not be in network.

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