With many kids out of school and temperatures heating up, summer is a popular time for taking a vacation. For some travelers, it may be the first venture out of town in a few years. Whether exploring a new country or on a road trip to the beach, it’s important to know where to access care for any unexpected turn in life. Sutter Health Plus members have a variety of care options while traveling—in or out-of-network. Before leaving for a trip, here are a few things to know.
Preparing to Travel
Prior to traveling, members are encouraged to schedule an appointment with a clinician to discuss any vaccines and immunizations they may need, such as the COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, members may want to ensure they have an adequate supply of medications for their trip—especially for individuals with an ongoing medical condition. Details about vaccination and drug coverage are available on a member’s Evidence of Coverage and Disclosure Form (EOC) through the Sutter Health Plus Member Portal. Always remember to pack your member ID card, which contains important contact information.
Same-day Video Visits
When on the go, members have convenient access to same-day virtual care for everyday health needs from a computer or mobile device. Video visits with a Sutter clinician are available daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on most holidays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Members may be directed to in-person care, if appropriate. Video visits can be scheduled through the My Health Online portal or mobile app, available for free download from the App Store or Google Play. Please note that a member must be physically located in California at the time of their appointment to participate in a video visit.
Sutter Walk-In Care
Members traveling in Northern California can access same-day care for a variety of common illnesses and health needs at any Sutter Walk-In Care. They may want to familiarize themselves with locations along their route or near their destination. Adults, and children 18 months and older are welcome daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on some holidays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., hours may vary by location. Appointments are also available by calling ahead or scheduling through My Health Online.
Emergency and Urgent Care
Sutter Health Plus covers emergency or urgent care anywhere in the world—in or out-of-network. If needed, members should dial 911 (or its equivalent if in a foreign country) or go to the nearest medical facility. If admitted to a hospital that is not in the Sutter Health Plus network, members should contact Member Services within 24 hours, or as soon as reasonably possible, at 855-315-5800. Sutter Health Plus will then collaborate with the hospital and/or doctors handling care, make appropriate and necessary payment provisions, and, if safe to do so, transfer a member to an in-network hospital. In-network urgent care locations can be found using the provider locator tool.
24/7 Nurse Advice Line
Registered nurses are available 24/7 to provide immediate medical information to determine the right level of care for a health need at 855-836-3500.
To learn more, visit sutterhealthplus.org/members/care-while-traveling.
