When to go
- Routine checkups, screenings and immunizations.
- Preventive care.
- Prescriptions and medications.
- Referral to see a specialist.
- Fever and flu symptoms.
- Chronic pain.
When it comes to healthcare, you have choices. Whether it's a minor mishap or a major injury, understanding the suitability of a visit to the hospital emergency room versus an urgent care center versus a visit to your primary care physician can improve your healthcare experience (while also saving you time and money). In this video, learn how to choose the right care for you.
Doctor's office
Your cost and time
- Coinsurance, copay and/or deductible.
- Primary care provider (PCP) usually has lowest copay.
- May need appointment.
- Shorter wait times.
- Doctor on call 24/7.
Telehealth
When to go
- Allergies.
- Dermatological conditions.
- Bladder conditions and UTIs.
- Fever and flu symptoms.
- Chronic pain.
- Prescription refills.
Your cost and time
- Coinsurance, copay and/or deductible.
- Often the same cost as a PCP office visit.
- Same-day appointments often available.
- After-hours access available.
Urgent care
When to go
- Covers similar health concerns as doctor’s office.
- For urgent symptoms, call your doctor’s office. If your doctor’s office is closed, consider going to an urgent care facility.
- Extended weekday and weekend hours are often available.
Your cost and time
- Costs lower than emergency room.
- Call to confirm insurance is accepted.
- Wait times vary with volume.
- Breeze Urgent Care is a preferred Texas Health partner with locations throughout DFW.
- In and out in about 30 minutes.
- Open 365 days/year, including holidays.
DispatchHealth®
When to go
- Texas Health collaborates with DispatchHealth® to bring medical care to you in the comfort of your home.
- Treats a wide variety of complex illnesses and injuries offering on-site labs, imaging, IV and EKG.
- DispatchHealth® is available in select DFW ZIP codes.
Your cost and time
- In-network with most major insurance.
- Similar cost to an urgent care visit.
- Prescriptions called in and your doctor is updated.
- Available 365 days/year, including holidays.
- Hours: Monday–Sunday, 8 a.m.–10 p.m.
Emergency room
When to go
- Critical injuries or illness.
- Sudden numbness or weakness.
- Uncontrolled bleeding.
- Seizure or loss of consciousness.
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest pain.
Your cost and time
- Highest cost.
- Open 24/7, no appointment needed.
- Wait times may be very long.
- Higher risk of exposure to infection.
- Call your PCP before going or as soon as possible.
