how much does an urgent care visit typically cost

Urgent Care Visit Cost: Insurance vs. No Insurance

Due to lower costs and convenience, urgent care centers and stand-alone health clinics are becoming more popular. As of 2019, across the United States, there were around 9,616 urgent care centers . But what do they treat at an urgent care clinic ? How much does it cost compared to going to the ER? What if you don’t have insurance? We’ll cover these questions and more, plus offer cost-saving advice.

What is Urgent Care?

Healthcare .gov defines urgent care as “Care for an illness, injury or condition serious enough that a reasonable person would seek care right away, but not so severe it requires emergency room care.”

In other words, it’s the middle ground between assessing bug bites and performing surgery. Urgent care centers provide relief without the wait or expense of going to your hospital’s emergency department. 

Urgent Care Visit vs. Emergency Room Visit

Hospital emergency rooms are usually busier and always more expensive than urgent care centers . The cost of an ER visit varies, but the average cost is around $1,200. So when you can’t see your primary care physician or normal health care provider , a trip to urgent care is usually the most cost-friendly move.

Typical urgent care services include minor medical treatments that you can get at the doctor’s office such as:

• Urinary tract infections
• Upper respiratory infections
• Sore throat  
• Strep throat
• STD treatment and diagnosis

When should you go to the ER ? 

• Chest pain and other signs of a heart attack
• Problems breathing
• Weakness or numbness on one side
• Slurred speech
• Serious burns
• Head injury
• Broken bones
• Dislocated joints

Types of Procedures Offered at Urgent Care Facilities  

Besides physical exams, urgent care may provide the following procedures: 

• Minor surgical procedures (stitches, mole removal, cauterization, incision and drainage, cyst extraction, fingernail or toenail removal)
• Pap smear testing
• STD testing
• Pregnancy tests
• Blood tests (complete blood count, metabolic panels, enzymes, cholesterol, triglyceride)
• Flu tests and COVID-19 tests

Interested in learning more about procedure costs? Use this price comparison tool to quickly access the costs of these procedures (and lots of others) from providers in your area. 

Compare Procedure Costs Near You

How Much Does a Trip to Urgent Care Cost if You Have Insurance?

All ACA-compliant health insurance plans cover emergency care, though not all insurers define what emergency care is in the same way. So, most insurance plans cover urgent care , and your out-of- pocket costs will likely be cheaper than an ER visit.

Most insurance plan providers encourage the use of urgent care clinics during off-hours, weekends, and holidays — when you can’t see your regular doctor — by charging fees and copays similar to an office visit with a primary care provider. However, some plan providers, like TRICARE, only allow you to visit urgent care clinics that are within your network up to two times each year without prior authorization. 

The typical copay for urgent care is between $25 and $50. Your insurance company sets the rates, and they may vary. 

The average out-of- pocket costs for an urgent care visit if you have insurance breaks down like this: 

Copay and/or coinsurance + deductible (if applicable) = out-of- pocket costs

To find out exactly how much you will have to pay, consult your health insurance plan policy’s explanation of benefits (EOB).

How Much Does Urgent Care Cost for Uninsured Patients ?

In the United States, 5.4 million laid-off workers became uninsured between February and May 2020, an increase that is 39% higher than any other in modern history. 

The average cost of an urgent care visit is $100 to $200, according to American Family Care, the largest urgent care clinic in the United States.

Depending on your medical needs , this could be much higher. Procedures like lab tests and X-rays will increase the amount of your final bill.

Urgent Care Alternatives

Many people go to the ER for simple medical care when they are between paychecks or have a high deductible insurance plan, because an emergency department (unlike urgent care) is obligated to provide care to all patients regardless of their ability to pay. 

If you fall into this category or have no insurance , the following urgent care alternatives may fit your needs:

• Free clinics: Many communities offer free or low-cost health care clinics. The cost of using these clinics usually depends on your income or ability to pay. State and local health departments also offer deeply discounted services similar to urgent care clinics . Additionally, there are around 1,400 charity hospitals and clinics across the United States. 
• Retail health clinics: Chains like CVS and Walgreens, as well as big-box stores like Target and Walmart, offer minor medical care via retail health clinics (RHC). RHCs offer walk-in health care services in select stores across the United States. The average cost for treatment at an RHC is around $100.
• Telehealth: This is one of the most budget-friendly ways to access health care today. According to United Healthcare , the average cost for telehealth, currently around $50, is about 50% less than most urgent care visit costs. You don’t need to have insurance to use telehealth either. CVS offers telehealth visits via the Minute Clinic .

How to Save on Your Urgent Care Visit Cost

If you are covered by insurance, make certain to go to an urgent care clinic that accepts your specific insurance plan . Calling your provider is the best way to avoid the unhappy surprise of unmet urgent care costs. 

If you’re wondering how you can save money on your out-of- pocket costs , you have a few options. For one, many urgent care clinics offer discounted rates of up to 20% off when you pay in cash. And you can always visit Aunt Bertha , the website that connects you with partners in your area. Their mission is to provide community support, including financial help for medical bills, prescriptions, copays , and deductibles . 

Sometimes when you have to go to an urgent care center , you don’t have time to worry about the costs of tests and procedures. But when possible, looking up prices on Compare.com puts you in control of your health care , helping you make better, more informed decisions.  

Disclaimer: Compare.com does not offer medical advice and is in no way a substitute for any medical advice received from health professionals. Compare.com is unable to offer any advice on any medical procedure you may need.

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How much does urgent care cost without insurance?

$150 – $250 average urgent care visit cost.

Average cost of urgent care without insurance

The average urgent care visit costs $150 to $250 without insurance. Most urgent care clinics charge a $100 to $150 office visit fee that includes an evaluation by a healthcare professional and treatment for minor illnesses or injuries. Additional tests, X-rays, medications, treatments, and procedures cost extra.

Cost data is from research and project costs reported by BetterCare members.

Urgent care visit cost by level

The total cost of an urgent care visit depends on the number and severity of issues and what is needed to diagnose and treat you. Most urgent care centers used tiered pricing based on the amount of time or number of tests and treatments. Some facilities have more than three pricing levels.

Factors the affect the cost of urgent care

Factors that impact the cost include:

Office visit cost – Urgent care centers charge a base visit cost of $100 to $150 on average just to walk in and see a healthcare professional for evaluation. This office visit cost typically does not include X-rays, tests, medications, or procedures.

Location – Urgent care costs are fairly standard across the country, but you may pay slightly more in a major city like New York or Los Angeles.

Level of care – More serious or complex health issues require more expertise and take longer to diagnose and treat, increasing the cost.

Insurance – While lack of insurance coverage often means higher out-of-pocket healthcare costs, many urgent care facilities offer discounted self-pay or cash rates for individuals with no insurance.

Tests & treatments – Each X-ray, medication, treatment, or procedure adds to the total urgent care bill.

Labs – Some urgent care centers include in-house lab testing in their self-pay office visit price. When not included, lab tests cost $20 to $200+ each , depending on the test and whether it can be done in-house or requires sending to an off-site testing facility.

Urgent care services

In addition to treating common illnesses and injuries, urgent care centers provide a wide range of healthcare services. The table below shows the average cost for some of the most common services. Depending on the facility, some of these services may be included in the office visit fee.

Urgent care vs. emergency room cost

While emergency rooms can handle non-life-threatening health issues, going to an urgent care center instead will typically cost much less, especially for individuals with no insurance. Your wait time will also likely be much shorter at an urgent care center.

A typical urgent care visit costs $150 to $250 , while an ER visit costs $1,500 to $3,000 on average for the same service without insurance. Check out our guide comparing urgent care costs vs. the emergency room for a more in-depth look at the differences.

Urgent care FAQs

What is urgent care.

Urgent care refers to medical clinics that provide same-day, non-emergency healthcare services. This includes treating common ailments like colds, the flu, ear or bladder infections, bronchitis, strains, or sprains. Urgent care centers also offer other healthcare services like lab tests, vaccines, and physicals.

When should I go to an urgent care facility?

Consider going to an urgent care center if you are experiencing a non-life-threatening health issue and your primary doctor's office is closed or cannot fit you on the schedule. Urgent care facilities provide many healthcare services, including:

Treatment for minor illnesses and injuries

Physicals needed for sports, school, or employment

Diagnostic lab testing

Medications

Medical equipment

Is a walk-in clinic the same as an urgent care center?

A walk-in clinic is similar to an urgent care center in that both provide basic medical care services. However, most urgent care centers can handle a broader range of health issues and more serious non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries, like a severe burn or broken bone.

What is the difference between urgent care and the emergency room?

Urgent care centers are same-day clinics meant for illnesses and injuries that are not life-threatening. The emergency room is intended for serious, life-threatening situations that need immediate attention, such as a heart attack, stroke, uncontrollable bleeding, or major injury.

Does urgent care bill you later without insurance?

Most urgent care facilities require payment at the time of service. Depending on the testing and treatment you receive, you may also receive a bill after your visit.

Tips to save on your urgent care visit

Healthcare services can add up quickly, especially without insurance. Here are some guidelines to ensure you are not overpaying for your care:

Look online – Most urgent care centers have information on their website about self-pay rates, and many list the prices for individual services.

Call ahead – Call the facility beforehand to confirm their current wait time and find out their rates and payment options. You can also speak with them about your specific issue to determine if urgent care is the best choice.

Ask the right questions – Consider asking these important questions before your visit to ensure you are not surprised by the bill later:

Do you have discounted pricing for patients without insurance?

Will it cost less if I pay with cash?

What do you charge for an office visit?

What does the office visit fee include?

Will I need additional tests, and what will they cost?

How much do you charge for X-rays?

If I need medication, how much will it cost?

We use our proprietary database of project costs, personally contact industry experts to compile up-to-date pricing and insights, and conduct in-depth research to ensure accuracy in all our guides.

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What’s An Urgent Care Center?

By James Yoo

James is a writer and editor for HealthCare.com and its web properties.  He is a former newspaper journalist. James has an MA in journalism from Syracuse University and a BA in history from the University of Pennsylvania.

We want to help you make educated healthcare decisions. While this post may have links to lead generation forms, this won’t influence our writing. We adhere to strict editorial standards to provide the most accurate and unbiased information.

What’s An Urgent Care Center?

Painful swallowing, a high fever, small red dots on the roof of her mouth – Amy knew something was wrong by the end of the day. But her doctor’s office was closed and Amy couldn’t afford to foot an expensive hospital bill. After an online search, she found a closeby urgent care center and was quickly treated for strep throat.

By going to urgent care, Amy felt better and saved more than $400 by skipping the trip to the ER.

Urgent Care: The Basics

Urgent care falls in between emergency services and scheduled doctor’s office visits. If you need medical attention but can’t wait to see your primary care physician, then urgent care can help.

When you go to an urgent care clinic, you won’t have to schedule an appointment to see a physician. Simply walk in with your insurance card to be treated. Centers usually operate for long hours, and are often open on weekends as well as holidays.

From administering vaccines to treating mild illnesses, urgent care professionals can care for you. Most urgent care centers offer a wide range of medical services. Facilities are able to prescribe medications and refer you to a primary care doctor or specialist.

More than 89 million visits are made to urgent care centers each year. With the rise of these care centers in the U.S., you can now access outpatient care with more convenience and comfort.

Costs for Convenient Care

The average cost per visit to urgent care ranges from $150 to $200 .

Although your insurance plan won’t pay back your ride to the clinic, your urgent care treatment should still cost far less than an emergency room visit. For example, what you pay to treat acute bronchitis at an urgent care center will be around $127. Going to the emergency room adds more than $400 (and several hours) for the same treatment.

There are multiple ways to pay for your visit to an urgent care clinic. You’ll need to consider the following questions to determine your total out-of-pocket costs:

• Does this urgent care center accept my health insurance provider? If your urgent care center is in-network, costs for medical services will be less than an out-of-network center.

Most procedures and services performed at urgent care clinics are covered by many insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. However, your illness or injury may require additional testing that can add to your medical bill.

• Did you meet your deductible already? When you go to urgent care, you’ll only pay your copayment if you’ve met your deductible .
• How much is your copayment? The average copay for an urgent care visit ranges between $25 to $75.
• Does your insurance plan include coinsurance? If you met your deductible and your plan includes coinsurance, then you will pay that percentage.

You could also be transferred to a hospital emergency room depending on your condition’s severity. There may be separate costs if this situation arises, such as transportation, outside lab services, and emergency care expenses.

Health insurance companies generally support you using urgent care instead of unnecessary emergency services. For instance, companies like Aetna continue to encourage individuals to seek urgent care, stating that “the far lower cost you’ll pay for participating urgent care visits will feel like instant relief.” This is because urgent care saves money for you and your insurance provider. In some cases, insurance companies have denied paying for patients who visited the ER when they could’ve seen an urgent care physician.

Why Go to Urgent Care?

Patients go to urgent care centers for a few reasons: fractures, minor burns, sore throats, and eye or ear infections. According to a survey by the Journal of Urgent Care Medicine , the top diagnoses performed at centers throughout America included: wound/trauma/fracture; ear; skin; and genitourinary conditions, such as urinary tract infections.

You should visit an urgent care center if you are injured or fall ill and can’t see your primary care physician. However, if you believe your life is in danger, seek emergency medical care as soon as possible. By seeking help at the right time, you can prevent long-term damage.

At an urgent care center, you will be treated by doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals, just like any hospital or doctor’s office setting. On average, patients at urgent care centers will wait between 15 and 40 minutes to see a professional. You can often save time by booking a visit in advance.

Finding An Urgent Care Provider

If you decide to seek urgent care, you can quickly locate a clinic online. Before you head out the door, check to see if the office is in-network – meaning it participates in your insurance plan – to save on costs for services. Also, be sure to have your health insurance card with you for payment purposes.

Once you finish up your visit, you’ll provide your copayment, co-insurance, or both, depending on if you’ve met your deductible. Some plans, including Medicaid, may not require upfront payment or any payment at all.

However, you shouldn’t plan to revisit urgent care for the same condition. If your condition requires follow-up or long-term care, you should find your primary care physician to continue treatment.

Taking the Next Steps

You should seek medical care at your own discretion. According to the American Academy of Urgent Care Medicine, nearly 40 percent of patients who visit the emergency room do not require true emergency care. By understanding the different services that urgent care centers offer, you can avoid that unnecessary emergency room trip.

Urgent care centers are designed to give you help in a hurry. If you are unable to wait to see your doctor, you can search for a nearby clinic. Even though schedules can be hectic, you can lead a healthier and happier life by prioritizing your well-being.

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How much does urgent care cost?

The cost of a visit to the emergency room or an urgent care center can vary based on where you are geographically, whether you are in-network or out of network, and which location you visit.

For non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, urgent care centers can typically offer substantial cost savings over a visit to the ER. Some insurance companies have estimated that an in-network urgent care visit can cost up to 80% less than an ER visit.

Click here for more information on the cost of an urgent care visit.

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How much does an urgent care visit cost?

Wondering how much does a typical urgent care visit cost?

When you or your loved one has an unexpected illness or injury, you would like to make sure that you have access to immediate care. You might choose to go to your primary care physician, an urgent care, or to your local hospital's emergency room (ER). However, each of these option could have a significantly different price tag.

On average, the cost of an urgent care visit is much lower than a visit to the emergency room (ER). Urgent care is a readily available, convenient option when you're looking for same-day treatment for a non-emergency illness or injury. Also, most urgent cares are available on weekends or early morning or late hours when your primary care provider (PCP) may not be available. Most urgent cares, including Prognify Urgent Care, accept walk-ins. And, if you want to skip waiting we also offer options to schedule ahead. We also allow you to get care from the comfort of your home with our virtual care options. Based on a Debt.org study, the average urgent care visit costs between $75 to $125. At Prognify Urgent Care our mission is to provide affordable, high-quality care to the community and take pride in providing transparent pricing for our services.

What if I have insurance?

Most health plans offered by major insurance companies cover urgent care visits. You might have a copay or deductible for visits to urgent care clinics based on your plan. You should also check if the urgent care clinic is in-network with your health plan. Prognify Urgent Care is in-network with most major health insurance providers in Michigan, Medicare, and Medicaid. If you're not sure if we accept your health insurance plan, please give us a call before your visit.

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• Back Pain & Neck Pain
• Boils & Abscesses
• Crutches, Splints, & Braces
• Cuts, Scrapes & Stitches
• Household Accidents
• Insect & Tick Bites
• Minor Burns
• Rashes & Skin Disorders
• Sports Injuries
• Sprains, Muscle Pains, Fractures & Dislocations
• Workplace Injuries & Accidents
• Asthma Treatment
• Congestion & Respiratory Infections
• Cough, Cold, COVID-19, Fever & Flu
• Ear Infections & Earaches
• Headaches & Migraines
• Nausea, Diarrhea, & Vomiting
• Sexually Transmitted Infections & Diseases (STIs & STDs)
• Sinus Pain & Congestion (Sinusitis)
• Sore Throat & Strep Throat
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
• Viral Infections

Figuring out what you might end up paying for a doctor’s visit can be incredibly confusing. But it doesn't have to be. Almost all urgent care centers accept insurance and more affordable than a visit to the ER. Prognify Urgent Care accepts most insurance plans, and offers payment plans if you can't pay for your visit upfront.

Key Takeaway: An urgent care visit is a great option for non-emergency care

Urgent care is a great option for same-day treatment for non-emergency care. The average cost of an urgent care visit is between $100 to $200. If you or your loved one needs immediate care, you can depend on us to provide prompt, compassionate care without breaking the bank.

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A few of our patient reviews

An overall great experience..

I was in Ann Arbor for only a few hours and wanted to get tested for Covid. I contacted Prognify Urgent Care and asked if they could fit me in. I had an appointment a half hour later. No waiting time. Friendly, knowledgeable and professional staff. Also, the facility is very clean and tidy. An overall great experience. I highly recommend.

Irena P., Prognify Urgent Care patient

Prognify is the best!

Prognify is the best! You can usually get same day appointments, the doctors and nurses are warm and efficient and the wait time is next to none. When you are feeling poorly, these elements are essential.

La Tanya H., Prognify Urgent Care patient

Friendly staff and a kind and friendly provider

Very clean lobby and rooms. Friendly staff and a kind and friendly provider (which has NOT been my experience with Urgent Care providers in the past). I really liked being able to book my appt. online and felt that it sped up the wait time considerably. Would definitely go back again.

Courtney R., Prognify Urgent Care patient

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Home Health Resources Urgent Care Visiting an Urgent Care Without Insurance: What You Need to Know

Urgent Care

Visiting an urgent care without insurance: what you need to know.

Do you suffer from allergies but don’t have insurance? Many people worry that they won’t be able to get the medical care they need without health coverage, but it is possible to visit an urgent care center without insurance. From understanding what services are available at a typical urgent care clinic and alternative treatments for uninsured patients, to preparing for your visit and managing allergies without insurance – this article will cover all the information you need when asking yourself “Can I Visit an Urgent Care Without Insurance?” Let’s take a closer look!

Table of Contents:

Understanding urgent care, visiting an urgent care without insurance, alternative treatment options for uninsured patients, preparing for your visit to the urgent care center without insurance, tips for managing allergies without insurance, how much does it cost to visit an urgent care without insurance, what services are offered at an urgent care for uninsured patients, are there any discounts available for uninsured patients visiting an urgent care, is it possible to get a payment plan if i can’t afford the full amount of my visit to the urgent care, can i still receive treatment even if i don’t have insurance and cannot pay upfront for my visit to the urgent care.

Urgent care is a type of medical facility that provides immediate, walk-in treatment for minor illnesses and injuries. It’s an alternative to the emergency room (ER) for those who don’t require life-saving or serious medical attention. Urgent care centers are typically open seven days a week with extended hours in the evenings and on weekends.

What is Urgent Care?

Urgent care centers provide diagnosis and treatment for common illnesses such as colds, flu, ear infections, strep throat, urinary tract infections (UTIs), sprains, strains cuts and burns. They also offer basic lab tests such as urine analysis or blood work; X-rays; vaccinations; physical exams; sports physicals; occupational health services like drug testing and workers’ compensation injury evaluations; travel medicine advice and immunizations: women’s health services including pregnancy tests and gynecological exams: school physicals for children ages 4–18 years old.

Benefits of Visiting an Urgent Care

The main benefit of visiting an urgent care center is convenience—they are usually open longer than regular doctor offices during evenings and weekends when many primary care physicians are closed. Additionally they often have shorter wait times than ERs which can save you time if you need to be seen quickly but your condition isn’t life threatening enough to warrant a trip to the ER. Finally most urgent cares accept walk-ins so you don’t need an appointment making them great options when your primary physician isn’t available or doesn’t have any openings in their schedule.

Types of Services Offered at an Urgent Care

Understanding urgent care is important for those who may need medical attention in an emergency situation. It’s also beneficial to know what services are offered at an urgent care and how to access them without insurance if needed, which we will discuss next.

It is possible to visit an urgent care without insurance, but it can be expensive. Uninsured patients should consider the cost of services before visiting a facility and research payment options that may be available.

Is it Possible to Visit an Urgent Care Without Insurance?

Yes, uninsured patients are able to visit an urgent care center for medical attention. However, due to the lack of insurance coverage, these visits will likely come with higher costs than those who have health insurance. It is important for uninsured patients to understand their financial responsibility prior to seeking treatment at an urgent care center.

Cost Considerations for Uninsured Patients

Uninsured patients should consider the cost of services before visiting a facility as they will likely need to pay out-of-pocket for any treatments or medications prescribed by their provider. The cost of services varies depending on the type and complexity of care needed; however, most centers charge between $75-$150 per visit without insurance coverage. Additionally, many facilities require payment upfront before providing any service or medication so it’s important that uninsured patients plan ahead financially if they intend on using this option for medical attention.

Payment Options for Uninsured Patients

Visiting an urgent care without insurance can be a daunting prospect, but there are other options available for those who don’t have coverage. The next section will discuss some alternative treatment options for uninsured patients.

Telemedicine Services: Telemedicine services are becoming increasingly popular for uninsured patients who need medical care. These services allow patients to connect with a doctor via video or phone call, and receive advice on their condition without having to leave the comfort of their own home. This can be especially helpful for those who live in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited. Telemedicine visits typically cost less than an in-person visit, making them more affordable for uninsured patients.

Retail Clinics and Walk-In Clinics: Retail clinics and walk-in clinics offer another option for uninsured patients seeking medical care. These clinics provide basic health services such as vaccinations, physicals, lab tests, and minor illnesses like colds or flu at lower costs than traditional doctor’s offices or hospitals. Many retail clinics also accept payment plans that make it easier for uninsured patients to pay out of pocket without breaking the bank.

Community health centers and free clinics are available in many communities across the country providing low-cost or no-cost healthcare options to individuals without insurance coverage. These centers often have sliding scale fees based on income level, making them accessible even if you don’t have any money saved up for medical expenses. Additionally, some community health centers may offer additional programs such as mental health counseling or nutrition classes that can help improve overall wellbeing regardless of insurance status.

Alternative treatment options for uninsured patients, such as telemedicine services, retail clinics and walk-in clinics, and community health centers and free clinics provide access to care without the need for insurance. Preparing ahead of time can help ensure a successful visit to an urgent care center without insurance.

Visiting an urgent care center without insurance can be a daunting task. It is important to prepare for your visit by gathering necessary information before you go, researching the cost of services ahead of time, and bringing a list of questions to ask your provider.

Gather Necessary Information Before Your Visit: Knowing what type of health coverage you have (or don’t have) will help you determine if there are any other options available to cover the costs associated with visiting an urgent care center. Additionally, it is important to know what symptoms or conditions you are experiencing so that the doctor at the urgent care center can properly diagnose and treat them.

Research The Cost Of Services Ahead Of Time: Researching the cost of services ahead of time can help ensure that you are not surprised by unexpected fees when it comes time to pay for your visit. Many urgent care centers provide online estimates for their services which makes it easier than ever before to get an idea about how much money needs to be set aside in order for payment upon arrival.

Bring A List Of Questions To Ask Your Provider: Asking questions during your visit will help make sure that all aspects related to diagnosis and treatment are discussed thoroughly between yourself and your provider. Some examples include asking about alternative treatments or medications, understanding potential side effects from certain medications or procedures, as well as inquiring about follow-up visits or tests needed after leaving the facility.

Preparing for a visit to an urgent care center without insurance can be intimidating, but by doing your research and gathering the necessary information ahead of time, you can make the process easier. Next, we’ll discuss tips for managing allergies without insurance.

Allergies can be a nuisance and can make everyday activities difficult to manage. Unfortunately, many people don’t have access to health insurance that would cover the cost of allergy treatments. However, there are still ways to manage allergies without insurance.

Identify Triggers and Avoid Exposure When Possible: Identifying what triggers your allergies is key in managing them without insurance. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and certain foods or medications. Keeping track of when you experience symptoms will help you identify potential triggers so that you can avoid exposure as much as possible.

Follow a Healthy Diet and Exercise Routine: Eating healthy meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables helps keep your immune system strong which can reduce the severity of allergic reactions. Regular exercise also boosts immunity by increasing circulation throughout the body which may help reduce inflammation caused by allergies.

FAQs in Relation to Can I Visit an Urgent Care Without Insurance?

The cost of visiting an urgent care without insurance can vary depending on the services provided. Generally, a visit to an urgent care facility will cost between $50 and $150. This includes any tests or treatments that may be necessary for diagnosis and treatment. It is important to note that some facilities may charge more for certain services, so it is best to call ahead and ask about pricing before making a visit.

At an urgent care for uninsured patients, services typically include diagnosis and treatment of minor illnesses and injuries. These may include colds, flu, sore throats, ear infections, rashes or skin irritations, sprains and strains as well as other non-life threatening conditions. In addition to these treatments, some urgent cares offer vaccinations and basic lab tests such as blood work or urinalysis. Depending on the facility’s capabilities they may also provide X-rays or ultrasounds if needed. Finally many facilities will have a pharmacy where you can fill prescriptions at discounted rates without insurance coverage.

Unfortunately, there are no discounts available for uninsured patients visiting an urgent care. Urgent care centers typically charge a flat fee for services rendered regardless of insurance status. However, some centers may offer payment plans or reduced fees based on income level and other factors. It is best to contact the center directly to inquire about any possible discounts that may be available.

It is possible to get a payment plan if you cannot afford the full amount of your visit to the urgent care. Most urgent care centers offer payment plans for those who need them, and these plans can be tailored to fit individual needs. It is important to speak with a representative at the center in order to determine what options are available and how they may best suit your financial situation. Additionally, many insurance providers also offer coverage for visits made to an urgent care center, so it’s worth checking with your provider as well.

Many urgent care centers offer a variety of payment options, such as sliding scale fees or discounts for those who qualify. Additionally, some states provide free or low-cost health services through their Medicaid programs. You should contact your local urgent care center to inquire about any available payment options that may be available to you.

It is also important to consider alternative treatment options such as over-the-counter medications or home remedies that may help alleviate allergy symptoms. Lastly, managing allergies without insurance can be difficult but there are tips and resources available to help make it easier. Ultimately, when asking “Can I visit an urgent care without insurance?”, the answer is yes; however, you should take into account all of the factors involved before making a decision.

If you are experiencing allergy side effects and symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. Visiting an urgent care can be a great option if you do not have insurance or the time to wait for an appointment with your primary physician. At NextCare Urgent Care, we provide quality healthcare services at affordable prices so that everyone has access to the treatment they need without having to worry about their financial situation. Don’t let allergies get in the way of living life – come see us today!

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Should I Use Telemedicine or Go to Urgent Care?

• Traditional doctor visits can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially for those in rural areas with a shortage of doctors. Urgent care and telemedicine are designed to make healthcare more accessible, offering faster, more affordable care.
• Urgent care centers, which began in the 1970s, offer same-day non-emergency care with shorter wait times and lower costs. They see about 160 million patient visits each year, offering services like x-rays, blood work, stitching up small wounds, and IV medications.
• Telemedicine offers quality healthcare without the need for face-to-face contact. It uses familiar technology like video chat, texting, and email to provide healthcare services. It has proven its worth with studies showing that patients have the same or better health outcomes as those receiving face-to-face care.
• Telemedicine and urgent care are more affordable options for same-day care than the emergency room. Patients can save hundreds of dollars by choosing these options over the hospital for urgent, but not necessarily emergency, health concerns.
• Knowing when to choose between urgent care and telemedicine can be confusing. Telemedicine is great for general care appointments and seeing a wide range of medical specialists. However, when in-person medical care is needed, an urgent care center may be the best choice as they offer many of the same services as the emergency room, with shorter wait times and lower prices.

Urgent care was created to fill a gap in patient care

Telemedicine proves that quality care doesn’t always require face-to-face contact, what happens during a telemedicine visit, telemedicine and urgent care offer more affordable same-day care than the er, when should you use telemedicine and urgent care.

• Frequently Asked Questions

You know as well as we do that going to the doctor is time-consuming. More likely than not, you’ll wait weeks to get an appointment with your primary care doctor or a specialist. When it’s time for your appointment, you’ll spend an average of 121 minutes on a trip to the doctor —that’s enough time to, well, do a whole lot of things you’d rather do than see your doctor. Whether that time is spent in the car getting to your appointment or sitting in a waiting room, it’s frustrating, to say the least. And if you live in a rural area, you’re probably going to spend even more time due to the shortage of doctors that most non-urban regions are faced with.

That’s where urgent care and telemedicine come in. Though they each have a time and place where it’s appropriate to use them (like don’t try to get a telemedicine visit for a broken arm ... please go to urgent care), they are both designed to make healthcare more accessible. Not only is an urgent care physician able to see you faster than a traditional doctor, but you’ll also likely be able to get care at a fraction of the cost.

Urgent care appointments and telemedicine appointments can both be booked same-day or next-day, saving you time and getting you better, faster but the main difference is that with telemedicine, you don’t even have to leave your house (or office). This is great for saving all that time you’d typically spend driving, waiting, and wishing you were home in your yoga pants.

Like many healthcare options, knowing when to choose urgent care and when to book a telemedicine appointment can be confusing. When you or your child isn’t feeling well, you don’t want to be faced with a decision between in-person treatment at urgent care and having a doctor’s visit via video chat, so it’s a good idea to learn which is best for different health concerns before you need care. Below, we dig deeper into how to choose and give you some insider knowledge on just how critical both urgent care and telemedicine are for patients.

First, a short history lesson. Urgent care centers started popping up in the 1970s when physicians saw an unmet need for same-day non-emergency care . These new clinics gave people access to high-quality care with shorter wait times and lower out-of-pocket costs. Before urgent care was a thing, you could only find that at doctors’ offices and hospitals, and the wait times were much longer.

Today, convenient care clinics see about 160 million patient visits each year, nearly all of which are more affordable and convenient than a trip to the ER.

A recent survey found that almost half of millennials don’t have a primary care physician (PCP), mostly because they can’t find one that offers the convenience and customer service that they expect from their doctors. Instead, they turn to urgent care centers when they need same-day face-to-face care. According to the same survey, a growing number of Baby Boomers are even catching on to how convenient and affordable urgent care is, too.

Since their creation, these clinics have evolved to offer more than a convenient treatment for common illnesses , such as the cold and flu . Many urgent care centers can also provide more complex services, including x-rays for broken bones, blood work, stitching up small wounds, and giving intravenous (IV) medications and fluids. Some even take accessible same-day care one step further by offering telemedicine services, in addition to in-person appointments.

Sometimes you just don’t want to leave the house. Or deal with traffic. Or people. We feel that. T elemedicine is the solution to all of these woes . By using the same kind of technology you’re already familiar with, like video chat, texting, and email, telemedicine gives you access to the healthcare you need, from wherever you are. Of course, you do need access to a smartphone or a computer with a camera, as well as an internet connection or cell reception. It’s important to acknowledge that not all people, especially those in remote or lower-income areas, have readily available access to these. This is an issue that many healthcare professionals are working hard to fix .

When telemedicine services first became available, doctors and patients alike wondered whether virtual visits could give the same quality of care as face-to-face care. Over the past couple of decades, studies have found that telemedicine has more than proven its worth. Not only do studies show that patients have the same, or better, health outcomes as those receiving face-to-face care, but also the usage of telemedicine has skyrocketed. Today, as many as 7 million people rely on telemedicine for healthcare that doesn’t require in-person attention, making virtual visits the fastest-growing way to get medical care .

Telemedicine visits can be booked online through Solv , as well as participating doctors’ offices and urgent care centers. Many providers offer same-day or next-day visits, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Many common health conditions, from sore throats to rashes to joint aches and pains, can be treated through these virtual visits. Doctors may also use telemedicine to refill prescriptions, discuss lab results, and help patients manage chronic diseases.

During a typical telemedicine visit, you’ll video chat with a provider and discuss your current health concerns. They’ll use all that medical knowledge they’ve acquired from years of schooling and treating patients and apply it to your situation, assessing your symptoms the same way they would if you were sitting on one of those awkward doctor’s tables. You’ll get a diagnosis, recommended treatment, and, if needed, a prescription. Just like you would in-person. Are you noticing the trend? Telemedicine care is healthcare like you’d expect it to be, you just don’t have to leave your couch to use it.

It’s not just primary care visits that can be replaced with virtual care. Many specialists have also embraced telemedicine. Appointments with dermatologists, allergists, psychiatrists, oncologists, and even obstetricians can now be booked completely online. This is a win for patients who used to have to wait weeks (or, in some cases, months) for a face-to-face appointment with a specialist.

We surveyed 2,000 Americans and found that 31% of people that went to the emergency room only went because they thought it was the most convenient option . If only they had known urgent care was a more convenient option, 65% of people would have chosen that instead (and saved a lot of money).

While ER visits can leave you with a medical bill of $500 or more, urgent care visits typically only cost between $100 and $200. If you have health insurance, you’ll only have to pay the amount of your copay (the fee you pay for care after you’ve met your deductible and insurance has started helping out), which is typically between $35 and $75 for a trip to urgent care.

Pro Tip: If you’re uninsured, going to the emergency room isn’t your only option. Many urgent care centers post their prices online so that people without insurance know exactly how much they can expect to pay before they visit the doctor. Some even offer cash-pay discounts or payment plans for people that are paying for their care out of pocket.

When it comes to health concerns that are urgent, but not necessarily an emergency, patients can save hundreds of dollars by choosing telemedicine or urgent care over the hospital.

During a virtual visit, a doctor can help with many of the same things that you’d normally have to wait days, weeks, or months, to discuss with your primary care doctor.

So, when should you book a telemedicine appointment? You might book a telemedicine visit when you have one of the following health concerns:

• Allergy and asthma flare-ups
• Cough, cold, flu , or other respiratory or sinus infection
• Joint aches and pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rash, infection, insect bite, or small wound
• Sore throat
• Reviewing lab or test results
• Following up on a previous visit

Which types of healthcare providers offer telemedicine services?

While telemedicine is great for general care appointments, you can also use them to see a wide range of medical specialists.

Specialists that offer telemedicine services include:

• Cardiologists (heart doctor)
• Dermatologists (skin doctor)
• Oncologists (cancer specialist)
• Gastroenterologists (digestive system specialist)
• Immunologists (immune system specialist)
• Nephrologists (kidney specialist)
• Obstetricians and gynecologists
• Ophthalmologists (eye doctor)
• Psychiatrists
• Radiologists (the specialist who does MRIs, x-rays, etc.)

When should you choose urgent care?

Not everything can be treated during a video visit with your physician. When you need in-person medical care , an urgent care center may be your best choice. Urgent care centers employ family practice and emergency physicians, registered nurses, and radiology technicians, and they offer many of the same services as the emergency room —with shorter wait times and lower prices.

Most urgent care clinics can provide you with:

• X-rays and other diagnostic imaging tests
• IV fluids and medications
• Care for deep cuts and abscesses
• Setting minor fractures
• Strep throat, flu, and mononucleosis tests
• Sexually-transmitted infection (STI) tests
• Flu shots and other vaccines
• Physical exams for school, work, or athletics
• Drug testing

Going to the doctor will never be fun, but it also doesn’t need to be time consuming or expensive. At Solv, we believe that the patient (you!) should be in control of your healthcare. Telemedicine and urgent care are both options that, when used for the right care, at the right time, can make healthcare less frustrating. When you need care now, book through Solv . We’ve got your back.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the average trip to the doctor take, what are the benefits of urgent care and telemedicine, what services do urgent care centers provide, how does telemedicine work, what conditions can be treated through telemedicine, how much does a visit to urgent care typically cost, when should i choose telemedicine over urgent care, when should i choose urgent care over telemedicine.

• telemedicine
• primary care
• healthcare costs
• urgent care

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