Convenient Urgent Care Services

Jan 26, 2015 | Access, Network

Sutter Health Plus health plan provides members with convenient access to high-quality urgent care services. Urgent care facilities in our network—including Sutter Express Care at select Rite Aid locations in the Sacramento area—offer timely care for unforeseen illnesses or injuries that require immediate attention.

A visit to urgent care may also reduce an unnecessary trip to the emergency room, which usually has longer wait times and higher out-of-pocket costs. Our network of urgent care facilities provides members with more access to the right level of care at the right time in the right place. This helps hospital ERs dedicate their services to more patients with more serious medical emergencies—those that truly need a higher level of care.

Urgent care centers are ready to address most medical issues or problems that require attention within 24 hours. These may include:

  • Colds, fever, and flu (including flu vaccinations)
  • Minor injuries such as cuts, burns, sprains, and muscle strains
  • Upper respiratory illnesses such as earaches, sore throats, coughs
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Mild to moderate asthma attacks
  • Symptoms from seasonal allergies such as rash, itchy eyes, cough or runny nose
  • Vomiting and diarrhea

Seeking Appropriate Care
If members are unsure about when to visit an urgent care center, we have a Nurse Advice and Triage Line available 24/7 year-round at 855-836-3500. Our nurses can help guide members to the right place of care.

It’s always a good idea for members to check in with a primary care physician. PCPs in our network have call center representatives who can schedule appointments, provide advice, and in some cases put members in touch with doctors. Many PCPs also offer extended and after-hours care. Of course, in the case of an emergency, members should immediately call 9-1-1.

Providing members with access to high-quality, convenient urgent care services is one more way Sutter Health Plus works to make health care more affordable.