Know before you go

It's important to know where to go for the type of medical care you may need. Choosing wisely may save you time and money.

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  Use the SHL Symptom Checker to guide you on what type of care, if any, you may need.

  When to go: If you have a health concern on your mind, use this tool to see what your medical symptoms could mean, and learn about possible conditions. Visit SHL Symptom Checker online or download the free app from the App Store^SM or Google Play^TM (available in English and Spanish).
  

  Type of care: You may also find symptom relief for minor illnesses and injuries. 

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  Get health care advice 24 hours a day.

  When to go: If you’re unsure about your condition, our 24-hour Telephone Advice Nurse may be able to help. Our nurse is available to answer questions, provide self-care advice and help you decide whether to seek urgent care, emergency care, or schedule an appointment with your provider. Just call toll-free 1-800-288-2264, TTY 711.

  Type of care: Speak with a licensed, registered nurse about minor illnesses and injuries or medication interactions.

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  See a doctor online 24/7/365.

  When to go: When you’re not feeling so great, but it’s not an emergency and it’s tough to find time to see a doctor. NowClinic® Virtual Visits lets you talk with a provider using a computer or mobile device. Appointments aren't necessary, and the wait is typically less than 10 minutes.* Just as with an in-person office visit, you'll receive a diagnosis and individualized care plan. Prescriptions, if needed, can be sent to your chosen pharmacy. Download the NowClinic app or visit NowClinic.com.

  Type of care: Use NowClinic for common illnesses, such as, allergies, bladder infection, bronchitis, pink eye, sinus infections, viral illness and more.**

  Got a sick child? NowClinic to the rescue!

  NowClinic is your convenient solution, allowing you to access a health care provider for your child from the comfort of your own home. For children under 18 years old, simply sign in into your NowClinic account and select your child’s record. (A parent must be present during the visit.) Children 18 years or older will need to create their own NowClinic account.

  *Stats reported as of September 2016, but not guaranteed.

  **The conditions treated are subject to NowClinic provider discretion and may require a visual interaction such as a webcam. Video may also be required for prescribing.

  NowClinic is not intended to address emergency or life-threatening medical conditions. Please call 911 or go to the emergency room under those circumstances.

  NowClinic providers do not replace your primary care physician. The services are not covered by Medicare and may not be covered by your private health plan or Medicaid, so check with them prior to using the services. If not covered, the consumer is responsible for paying the fees at the time of service. If covered, copays and deductibles may apply. NowClinic providers do not prescribe controlled substances and reserve the right to refuse to prescribe other drugs that are restricted by state law or may be harmful or non-therapeutic. Providers may also decline an individual as a patient if the medical problem presented is not appropriate for NowClinic care or for misuse of services.

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  Connect with a primary care provider (PCP).

  When to go: When you need a preventive exam or treatment for a current health issue, your doctor’s office is a good choice. Each member covered under your plan can select his/her own PCP, or you may all choose the same one. You may choose a pediatrician for your child. Females over the age of 14 may select an OB/GYN in addition to a PCP.

  Type of care: Visit your PCP for routine care, yearly checkups, immunizations and other general health concerns. 

  Your PCP will keep a record of your health history to make informed decisions about your care. And, if necessary, he/she will communicate with other doctors, like specialists, to discuss additional testing or treatment.

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  Make an appointment with your doctor before you experience symptoms.

  When to go: Your plan covers preventive care screenings when you see an in network provider, even if you have not met your deductible (if one applies to your plan). For mental health and substance abuse services, you can use network providers and specialists without a referral.

  Type of care: Well visits, immunizations and screenings

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  Save time. Save money. Consider urgent care before the emergency room for non-life threatening issues.

  When to go: You may need care quickly, but it’s not an emergency, and your regular doctor may not be available. We contract with more than 15 urgent care centers conveniently located across the Las Vegas Valley, including two that are open 24 hours. 

  Type of care: Use urgent care for non-life threatening injuries or illnesses, such as:

  • Ear infections
  • Colds and other respiratory problems including coughs and congestion
  • Sprains and strains
  • Most abdominal pain
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Most cuts, burns, fevers and back pain
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  In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

  When to go: You need immediate treatment for a very serious or critical condition. Do not ignore an emergency. If you have a life-threatening situation, call 911 or your local emergency phone number right away. 

  Type of care:  Emergency room visits are for the sudden onset of a life-threatening condition and may include:

  • Serious burns
  • Major trauma
  • Poisoning
  • Serious breathing difficulties
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Severe chest pain
  • Sudden paralysis

  If not a true emergency, you may be responsible for the entire cost of the visit.

Finding care when you are traveling. Consider calling our 24-hour Advice Nurse or using NowClinic. If you need urgent or emergency care, call Member Services at 1-800-888-2264, TTY 711, to find care near you, and to learn if any restrictions apply.