Know Where to Go
Know Where to Go for Your Health Care
Keeping your health care costs in check could be as simple as making the right choice when you need medical care. When you have an illness or suffer an injury, you understandably want to feel better fast, but making the wrong choice about where to receive care can cost you.
The average outpatient emergency room (ER) visit costs $1,917, according to the Health Care Cost Institute. This means that if you head to the ER when you don’t really need emergency care, your wallet is going to feel the pain.
Where Should I Go?
Sometimes, it can be difficult to know where to draw the line when it comes to choosing if you should go to the ER, urgent care or your primary doctor. Here are a few guidelines to help you know where to go next time you’re sick or injured.
Emergency Room
A visit to the ER is the most expensive type of outpatient care and should only occur if there is a true emergency, or a life-threatening illness or injury. Examples of conditions that should be addressed in the ER include, but aren’t limited to:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Uncontrollable bleeding
- Poisoning or suspected poisoning
Urgent Care
Urgent care centers handle nonemergency conditions that require immediate attention—those for which delaying treatment could cause serious problems or discomfort. Sprains, ear infections and high fevers are conditions that can be treated in urgent care centers. Urgent care visits are less expensive than ER visits, but are typically more expensive than a visit to your primary care doctor.
Doctor’s Office
For most nonemergency illnesses or injuries, the best choice for medical care may be a visit to your primary care physician. Your regular doctor knows you best, has your medical history, and has the expertise to diagnose and treat most conditions. In addition, going to the doctor’s office is usually the most cost-effective option.
What’s Next?
Now that you’re aware of the differences between these types of health care facilities, next time you’re sick or hurt, you’ll be prepared to make the right decision for your health and wallet.
YMCA Newsletter
Fall is in the air! There is so much to look forward to about this season of change… the return of pumpkin spice, the turning of the leaves, and of course all of our fall programs at the Y! This newsletter is to inform you of all the fun, healthy activities you have access to through the YMCA of Greater Louisville. Remember, all of these options are available to you and your family, even if you are not already a member of the Y. Keep reading to learn more!
Y members do receive extra benefits, including member discounts on childcare and youth sports. If you’d like to take advantage of what our memberships have to offer, become a member today.
Have questions or just want to connect? Feel free to email me at abegley@ymcalouisville.org.
Get ahead of the game and the sign up for youth basketball! The Y gives all children the opportunity to shine both on and off the court by emphasizing teamwork, sportsmanship, character development, and equal playing time!
Register with code BB2023 by October 24 to save $15.
Whether you are a beginner or just want to improve your skills, we have a swim lesson class that’s right for you! We offer swim lessons year-round at locations throughout Greater Louisville and Southern Indiana.
YMCA facility members receive priority registration and discounted rates on swim lessons. And don’t forget, the Y is for everyone and financial assistance is available.
Do you know an outstanding youth? The YMCA is currently accepting applications for our 2022 Youth Character Awards. These awards are given to teens across the city who demonstrate exceptional leadership, are active in improving their communities, and incorporate the Y values of caring honesty respect and responsibility into their daily lives.
If a teen comes to mind, fill out a nomination form!
YMCA Safe Place Service’s largest annual fundraiser is right around the corner on October 18th! The Together 4 Teens Breakfast is a powerful event, highlighting the impact of YMCA Safe Place Services though the voices of the vulnerable youth it supports.
If you have any questions about the event, or if you would like to attend, please contact Dave Brennan via email dbrennan@ymcalouisville.org.
At the YMCA of Greater Louisville, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusivity. From September 9-18, the Y will be celebrating with welcoming activities, promoting inclusivity, and educating members about the many wonderful cultures from around the world!
This FUN and FESTIVE Halloween-themed 5k is open to runners and walkers of all ages. Saturday, October 29, Noon–3pm. Open to the public.
The 2022 YMCA Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot is coming! This event will take place on Thanksgiving morning at the Northeast Family YMCA, Thursday, November 24, 2022. We are excited to announce that for the first time ever, we are offering a MEMBERS ONLY Turkey Trot registration promotion!
Register through September 15 and receive $10 off each person.
