Save time and money with in-network care

When you’re enrolled in an HMO plan, you have a network from which to choose your care. “Much like a preferred provider organization (PPO) plan, HMOs have a network of doctors and hospitals that you can choose from,” explains Truong.

All health plans offer a provider directory that allows members to search for providers, hospital and facilities to make sure they’re in their network before getting care.

“If you visit a provider who isn’t in your network, you will likely be responsible for paying the entire cost, except in the case of an emergency,” adds Truong. “This can be costly because when your health plan doesn’t have a contract with a provider or facility, they can’t control what you’re charged for the services you receive.”

If your doctor isn't available, same-day virtual care or an urgent care center may be a good option. Check your plan medical group to see if they offer same-day virtual care.

“For the best experience and to avoid paying out of pocket, it’s important to find an urgent care center in your plan medical group,” recommends Truong.

You can also call Sharp’s after-hours nurse advice line at 1-800-767-4277. Nurses are available from Monday through Friday, 5 pm to 8 am and 24 hours a day or weekends and holidays.

Life can be unpredictable and understanding when to go to an urgent care center or emergency room can help you get the care you need. Sharp facilities offer integrated, coordinated care, ensuring your medical records are up to date and available to your doctor.

If you have an illness or injury that isn’t life-threatening and your doctor isn’t available, or if you need same-day care outside of your doctor’s office hours, you may need to visit an urgent care center. Choose in-network providers and facilities when you need urgent care.

Our award-winning emergency rooms and hospitals are here when you need them, too. If you have a severe or life-threatening illness or injury and need care right away, you may need to visit an ER.

Before you get care, have this information ready:

Your primary care physician. If you have an HMO plan, your primary care physician helps to coordinate your care and is familiar with your health history. They provide services or referrals to other providers. Your doctor’s name may be available on your member ID card and in your online member account.

Your plan medical group. Examples of plan medical groups include Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Group, Sharp Community Medical Group and SharpCare Medical Group, among others. This information should also be available in your health plan’s member handbook and may also be listed on your member ID card or online through your member account.

With this in mind, you should select your plan medical group, then search for nearby urgent care centers in your network. Select locations will let you save a spot in line, and select medical groups offer convenient virtual urgent care visits too.