January 26, 2025
Winter is here, and with it comes a host of health concerns that can leave you feeling miserable. But before you rush to the ER, take a moment to think about the best care option for your needs. ERs can be crowded, with longer wait times and higher costs than virtual care (telehealth) and urgent care.
- Virtual care (telehealth): Perfect for minor issues like colds, flu or sinus infections. Get care from the comfort of your own home, and often at a lower cost than an ER visit.
- Urgent care: Great for non-life-threatening issues, like sprains, minor injuries or illnesses that need attention but aren't emergencies. You'll typically get care faster and pay less compared to an ER. In some areas, you can get a visit from an urgent care provider at home.
- Emergency room (ER): Necessary for life-threatening emergencies, like severe injuries, chest pain, or difficulty breathing. ERs can handle the most critical cases. But be prepared to pay more. You’ll also have a longer wait time if your condition isn’t critical.
- Flu and respiratory illnesses: Stay home and avoid contact with others if you have the flu. You likely won't require medical attention, but start with telehealth to get fast, convenient care from a provider if you have questions.
- Cold and sinus infections: If symptoms last longer than 10 days and aren't improving, start by seeing a doctor via telehealth.
- Hypothermia and frostbite: Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause hypothermia and frostbite. Seek urgent care or visit an ER immediately. Also, follow recommended first aid treatments.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): The lack of sunlight during winter can lead to SAD, a type of depression. Use our "You have options for behavioral health care" guide to find the right provider for your needs.
- Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Cold air, allergies and poor air quality can exacerbate asthma and COPD. Start by seeing your primary care provider (PCP). If you don’t have one or yours isn’t available, telehealth or urgent care can help with mild or moderate symptoms. If your shortness of breath is severe, go to the ER.
- Heart health concerns: Cold weather can put extra strain on the heart. If you notice symptoms of a heart attack, dial 911 immediately.
- Norovirus and other gastrointestinal illnesses: Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, fever, headache and body aches. Most people recover without seeing a doctor. But you should seek emergency medical attention if you are severely dehydrated.
- Slip and fall injuries: Visit urgent care for serious cuts, lacerations and abrasions and if you think you have a sprain or strain. For more severe injuries, go to the ER.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning: Using gas-powered generators or any device that burns coal, gasoline, kerosene, oil, propane or wood can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. If you're exposed, get fresh air immediately and seek emergency medical attention.
Remember:
- With any life-threatening injury or illness, call 911 or go directly to the nearest ER.
- Learn more and get help finding where to go for care at asuris.com or by calling the number on your member ID card.
By knowing where to go for the right care, you can stay healthy and safe this winter.