Getting medical attention without health insurance can be a daunting and stressful task, especially if you have to pay for it out of pocket. It can be difficult to find help when you’re dealing with an illness or injury, and the cost of medical care can be a significant burden. That’s where urgent care can come in to help.
Understanding Urgent Care
First, it’s important to understand what urgent care is and when you should seek it out. Urgent care is a type of medical care designed to treat non-life threatening conditions that need immediate attention. It can provide access to a variety of health services without the need for an appointment or insurance.
Out of Pocket Urgent Care Services
Whether you’re dealing with a minor injury or an acute illness, urgent care clinics offer a wide range of services to address your medical needs. Understanding the services it offers can help you make an informed decision in seeking medical attention. Here’s a guide to help you determine if urgent care is a suitable option for you.
Acute Illness Management
Acute illnesses are those that develop suddenly and usually last for a short period of time. Urgent care can provide treatment and management for a range of acute illnesses, such as:
- Colds, flu, and other respiratory infections
- Strep throat and other bacterial infections
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Ear infections and sinus infections
- Headaches and migraines
Injury Treatment
Urgent care centers can provide treatment for a range of minor injuries, including:
- Cuts and lacerations
- Bruises and contusions
- Minor burns
- Sprains and strains
- Fractures and broken bones (minor)
- Dislocations
Diagnostic Testing
These are medical procedures used to identify the cause of a certain symptom, confirm or rule out a condition, and track the progress of a treatment. Here are some examples:
- Blood tests
- Urinalysis
- X-rays and other imaging tests
- Electrocardiograms (EKGs)
- Flu tests
- Rapid strep tests
- Pregnancy tests
Preventive Care
Preventative care can help you maintain good health and prevent the development or worsening of illness and disease. It involves taking proactive measures to identify and address potential health issues before they become serious problems. These measure may include:
- Immunizations, such as flu shots and tetanus shots
- Health screenings, such as cholesterol screenings and blood pressure checks
- Wellness exams, including physicals and sports physicals
- STD testing and treatment
- Travel medicine and vaccinations
- Nutrition counseling
Minor Procedures
A minor procedure is a medical procedure that is relatively simple and does not require general anesthesia or a hospital stay. These procedures are usually performed on an outpatient basis and done in a short amount of time. These procedures may include:
- Stitches and wound care
- Incision and drainage of abscesses and cysts
- Foreign object removal
- Skin biopsies
- Joint injections
These are just a few examples of the types of services available at Nao Medical. It is important to note that the specific services offered may vary depending on the urgent care center and their staff and equipment.
Telemedicine and After-Hours Care
Telemedicine, also known as virtual care, provides an affordable and convenient option to get medical advice from a licensed healthcare provider. It is a great alternative for those who may not have insurance coverage or would like to avoid the higher costs associated with in-person visits.
We know that getting care when you need it is important. That’s why we at Nao Medical offer telemedicine and after-hours options to help you get the care you need, even when our clinics are closed.
At Nao Medical, we believe that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare. If you are in need of urgent care or other medical services, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between urgent care and the emergency room?
Emergency rooms handle life-threatening conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes, and severe injuries. Urgent care centers handle non life-threatening conditions. Urgent care centers usually have shorter wait times than emergency rooms and are often more affordable.
How much does urgent care cost without insurance?
It varies from the type of service, as well as the urgent care clinic you go to. Through self pay, you will only pay for the services that you ask for and the services you have received. This gives you more freedom and control on what you spend on.
Can I get telemedicine or after-hours care without insurance?
Yes. Our telemedicine and after-hours care services are available for self pay or out of pocket payment.
What services does Nao Medical offer besides urgent care?
Besides our urgent care services, we offer a range of other healthcare services designed to help you stay healthy and prevent illness. Our services include primary care, women’s health, mental health, nutrition, and more.
