3 Important Reasons to Follow Up with Your Primary Care Provider After an ER Visit
November 29, 2023 | Tags:
When you're sick or injured enough to go to the emergency room (ER), it's important to follow up with your primary care provider (PCP) within seven days. Why? Your PCP is your trusted health partner and being open about your medical history and your health concerns is a key part of this relationship.
Medical Mutual nurses share three reasons why it’s important to follow up with your PCP after an ER visit:
Why to Follow Up with Your PCP After Going to the ER
1. Patients with chronic conditions often need ongoing management of their conditions.
If you have a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease or asthma, your PCP has the most knowledge about your situation and how to best manage it. After an ER visit, your PCP will want to see you to make sure that your condition is stable. They may also need to adjust your treatment plan.
2. Making sure you are taking the right medications.
ER doctors often prescribe multiple medications to treat patients. While these medications are prescribed for an important reason, you’ll want to follow up with your PCP to make sure they won’t adversely interact with other medications you’re taking or cause unwanted side effects. Your PCP will review all your medications and make sure they are necessary or make changes as you move forward with your course of care.
3. It's important to follow up with a provider who knows you for continuity of care.
Your PCP is the one who knows you best and has a complete understanding of your medical history. Following up with your PCP after an emergency visit allows them to review your ER records and ensure they have all the information they need to provide the best possible ongoing care.
- Bring a copy of your ER discharge papers to your appointment.
- Be prepared to tell your PCP about your symptoms, the medications you're taking and any tests or procedures performed in the ER.
- Ask your PCP any questions you have about your condition, treatment plan or medications.
If you're unable to schedule an appointment with your PCP within seven days of your ER visit, be sure to communicate to them that you visited the ER. They may be able to schedule a phone appointment or telehealth visit with you instead.
Make Your Appointment
By following up with your PCP after an ER visit, you can ensure that you're getting the best possible care for your condition and keeping your health on the right track. Medical Mutual can help you establish a relationship with a PCP. Use our Find a Provider tool or call the Customer Care number on your member ID card.
Chronic Condition Management Program
Medical Mutual offers eligible members a free Chronic Condition Management program to help you manage your condition and stay healthy. The program includes digital and telephonic health coaching, as well as diabetes testing supplies with no cost sharing. Call 1-800-590-2583 (TTY 711 for hearing impaired) to see if you are eligible.
Know Where to Go
Medical situations can be overwhelming and may require a quick decision on where to go for care. The ER isn’t always the best option. What actions you take and where you should go can depend on the symptoms you are experiencing. Reduce your stress by learning about your options before you go.