Average ER visit: $2,200. Urgent care: $150-$300.

Don't Go to the ER (Unless You Really Need To)

Up to 70% of ER visits could be handled at urgent care, retail clinics, or via telehealth -- at a fraction of the cost. Save $1,500+ per visit by choosing the right care level.

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9M+ Providers
Urgent Care Pricing
Telehealth Options
Real Price Data

Where Should You Go?

Use this guide to choose the right (and most affordable) care level for your situation.

CALL 911 / ER

Life-Threatening Emergency

Chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, stroke symptoms, loss of consciousness, severe allergic reactions, poisoning

$2,200+

Avg. cost

Urgent Care

Urgent but Not Life-Threatening

Sprains, minor fractures, cuts needing stitches, high fever, ear/sinus infections, UTIs, back pain

$150-$300

30-60 min wait

Retail Clinic

Non-Urgent, Same-Day Need

Flu/cold symptoms, strep test, vaccinations, blood pressure check, minor rashes, pink eye

$50-$100

15-30 min wait

Telehealth

Can Wait 1-2 Days or Remote Visit

Prescription refills, rashes, follow-ups, cold/flu advice, mental health, nutrition counseling

$30-$75

0 min wait

PCP / Specialist via FVH

Ongoing Concern or Specialist Need

Chronic conditions, specialist consultations, preventive care, imaging, lab work

$75-$200

Schedule via FairPass

The Real Cost Comparison

Estimated average costs based on national healthcare pricing data.

Emergency Room

$2,200

3-6 hours

For true emergencies only

Urgent Care

$150-$300

30-60 min

Infections, sprains, minor injuries

Retail Clinic

$50-$100

15-30 min

Flu, strep, vaccinations, screenings

Telehealth

$30-$75

0 min wait

Rashes, cold/flu, prescription refills

When to Go to the ER

Always call 911 or go to the nearest ER for these symptoms. No cost savings is worth risking your life.

Chest pain or pressure

Especially with sweating, nausea, or arm/jaw pain

Difficulty breathing

Sudden shortness of breath, wheezing, choking

Severe bleeding

Bleeding that will not stop after 10 minutes of pressure

Stroke symptoms (F.A.S.T.)

Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911

Severe allergic reactions

Swelling of throat/tongue, difficulty swallowing, hives + breathing trouble

Loss of consciousness

Fainting, seizures, head injuries, confusion or altered mental state

Search by Symptom

Common urgent needs with recommended care level and estimated FVH pricing.

Symptom
Recommended Care
Est. FVH Price
Sore throat / strep
Retail Clinic
$50-$80
Sprained ankle
Urgent Care
$150-$250
Ear infection
Telehealth or Retail Clinic
$30-$80
Minor cut needing stitches
Urgent Care
$200-$400
UTI symptoms
Telehealth
$30-$75
Back pain (non-severe)
Urgent Care or PCP
$100-$200
Rash or skin irritation
Telehealth
$30-$75
Persistent fever (adults)
Urgent Care
$150-$250

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

Skip the ER. Save $1,500+.

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