There are more health care options than ever. Your primary care doctor is often the best choice for managing your health care needs. But when your doctor is not available, nurse lines, walk-in clinics and online doctors are convenient and cost-effective options. Depending on your condition, what should you choose?
Know Where To Go For The Right Care. Nurse Line. Any health concerns. Available 24/7. Online Care. Common and minor health conditions. Available 7 days a week, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Walk-in Clinic. Common and minor health conditions. Open weekdays, plus after hours and some weekends.
When should I call a nurse line?
A nurse line enables you to discuss your health concerns by phone (typically 24/7) with a registered nurse who can help determine the best care choice, such as when to treat at home or go to a doctor's office. Refer to your health plan member materials to see if you have access to the nurse line.
What about online doctor care?
Virtual (not in-person) care services provide access to a medical professional via video, phone or online message. These visits are sometimes called e-visits (typically shorter with a set fee) or telehealth (usually similar cost as in-person visit) and coverage varies by plan.
While many providers offer their own online solution, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota also offers Doctor On Demand® by Included Health, a convenient and affordable care option to help you get well. It is easily accessible care from a board certified doctor or licensed therapist from anywhere and great for minor conditions such as allergies, skin rashes, cold/flu, eye/ear/bladder infections, and mental health visits. The next time you need to see a doctor, consider visiting an online doctor.
When should I go to a walk-in clinic?
Walk-in clinics (sometimes called retail clinics) provide quick, convenient and cost-effective care at the mall, in a grocery or drug store, or at work. They're typically open during store hours, sometimes after hours and on weekends. Use a walk-in clinic for minor illnesses, such as the common cold, strep throat or bronchitis.
What if my symptoms are more serious?
- For serious or life threatening conditions, call 911 or go to the ER.
- For conditions needing immediate attention, go to an urgent care center.
- For chronic conditions, call your primary care doctor.
Learn more about planning ahead to get the right care when accidents happen.
Types of care
| Type of care | Conditions treated | Convenience | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| ER | Serious or life-threatening condition | Available 24/7 | $$$$ |
| Urgent care | Conditions needing immediate attention | Open weekdays, plus after hours, weekends and holidays | $$$ |
| Primary care clinic (may offer virtual) |
Most medical needs | Open weekdays, office hours and some after hours | $$ |
| Walk-in clinic | Common and minor health conditions | Open weekdays, plus after hours and some weekends. Located in retail area | $ |
| Doctor On Demand (virtual) |
Common and minor health conditions (or make an appointment for a mental health visit) | 7 days a week, 7 am - 11 pm; appointments can be scheduled | $ or no $ |
| E-visits (virtual) |
Common and minor health conditions | Open weekdays and some weekends | $ or no $ |
| Nurse line | Any health concerns | Available 24/7 | No $ |
More information about choosing care
Note: Coverage for these options varies by health plan. Not all services may be available with your health plan.