Emergency services: know where to go

Watch now: See where Juan, Mary and Sue decided to go based on their symptoms.

Choose the right setting for care

Save time money: Your primary care doctor can best manage your health care needs. Use this plan to help you decide where to go for immediate, same-day care when you are unable to reach your doctor.

Green zone: go to your primary care doctor's office

Schedule a doctor's appointment for regular and preventive care for:

  • Checkups, shots and regular health screenings
  • Fevers, flus, sore throats and coughs/colds
  • Infections
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Injuries such as sprains and cuts
  • Lingering pain
  • Mild headaches
  • Ear problems

Call 800-3-ADVOCATE or search our online directory to find a doctor.

Yellow zone: go to immediate care

Go to an immediate care location if:

  • You are unable to reach your doctor.

AND

  • You have symptoms or needs similar to those listed under the green zone.

Find immediate care near you

Red zone: go to emergency department or call 911

Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you are experiencing SEVERE symptoms that are life-threatening. Symptoms include but are not limited to:

  • Severe chest pain or pressure
  • Choking
  • Severe burns
  • Severe stomach pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Serious head, neck or back injury
  • Loss of limb
  • Convulsions or seizures

Important: Call your doctor after visiting the ER or immediate care.

Call your doctor’s office as soon as possible after an emergency room or immediate care visit so they can help you schedule a follow-up appointment and assist you with any follow-up care.

Don’t have a doctor? Call 800-3-ADVOCATE or search our online directory to find the best doctor for your needs.

Insurance 101: learn more before you go

Understanding your health insurance information is important. Learn more about insurance terms you should know before accessing care.