General

Save Big Money

Emergency Room, Urgent Care, or Your Doctor?

Save big money by making the right choice

When you have a true medical emergency, you know what to do. Call 911 or get to your nearest emergency room (ER) as quickly as possible. But when you need after-hours care for a condition that isn't life-threatening or severe, an urgent care center is a much better option. You could save time and a huge chunk of money. Urgent care centers offer a full scope of medical care without an appointment. Most are available seven days a week, often with extended hours. Find one near you at the PEHP Provider Search when you log in to your online personal account. Familiarize yourself with the ERs contracted in your network so you’ll be prepared. If you're admitted to a non-contracted ER, make sure to get pre-notification from PEHP.

Your Doctor (Primary Care)
Urgent Care Center
Emergency Room
When to go For most non-urgent conditions when you can be seen during usual business hours.

When you need immdiate medical attention, but your doctor isn't available.

Examples:

  • Cold/flu symptoms
  • Broken bones
  • Minor cuts and burns

For emergencies in which your life may be in danger or you're suffering severe symptions

Examples:

  • Heart attack or stroke
  • Injury with severe bleeding
  • Drug overdose
Your Cost

Lowest 

Generally $25-$100

Low

Generally $35-$150

High

$150-$2,000 or more
Availability Usual business hours Seven days a week, often with extended hours 24/7

Sample Average In-Network Rates*

ER Care

Urgent
Alcohol/Drug Use $1,645 $134
Liver, Pancreas $2,721 $152
Blood Diseases $1,620 $106
Male Reproductive $1,642 $115
Burns $752 $119
Mental Health $1,402 $113
Circulatory Issues $2,737 $133
Metabolic Diseases $1,473 $136
Digestive Issues $2,564 $132
Musculoskeletal $1,476 $151
Ear, Nose, Mouth & Throat $1,276 $118
Myeloproliferative Diseases $1,106 $136
Eye $1,021 $106
Nervous System $2,134 $129
Newborns $1,118 N/A
Female Reproductive $2,497 $122
Respiratory Issues $1,576 $128
Infections $1,151 $116
Skin, Breast Concerns $1,098 $145
Injuries, Poisonings $1,396 $119
Kidney Disease $2,309 $120

*For illustrative purposes only. Based on PEHP average-cost data for allowed amounts from February 2013. Your costs may vary.