Q: A visit to a hospital emergency room costs $150. Do the medical plans cover a less expensive alternative that also provides good care?

A: The medical plans provide an Urgent Care Benefit that should be used for minor emergencies and does not require a referral.
Your PCP may also treat you in his/her office or refer you to an appropriate medical facility. If you are treated in the doctor’s office, the office visit copayment will apply.

Click here for a chart with a partial listing of Urgent Care Centers and their costs.

For a center near your home, call your health plan:

• HMO and PPO:
  (713) 837-9400 or (888)205-9266
• Texan Plus: (866) 556-4614
• Texas HealthSpring: (800) 846-2098
• Aetna: (800) 846-4614

In all cases of medical emergencies, you should seek care at the nearest medical facility.