Cold and flu season means sick days, pharmacy runs, and deciding whether it is worth sitting in an urgent care waiting room for two hours. For most common symptoms, it is not.
When a video visit works
If you have congestion, a sore throat, cough, mild fever, or general fatigue, a provider can evaluate your symptoms by video. They can review your history, ask the right questions, and recommend next steps. If a prescription is clinically appropriate, they send it to your pharmacy.
When you need in-person care
Some symptoms need hands-on evaluation. Go to urgent care or the emergency department if you have:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- A high fever that does not respond to medication
- Confusion or inability to stay awake
- Symptoms that improve then return with a worse fever
The cost difference
A self-pay urgent care visit for cold symptoms typically runs $200 to $400. Your Medcare membership is $29 per month and includes the visit. Even if you need an extra visit for a follow-up, it is $20. You are paying a fraction of what urgent care charges for the same conversation.
Antibiotics and viral infections
Not every cold needs a prescription. Most viral infections improve with rest, fluids, and time. Your provider will not prescribe antibiotics for a viral infection. If your symptoms suggest something that would benefit from medication, they will tell you.
Sign up online and connect with a provider in about 10 minutes Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM Eastern.
Before you start
Have your current medications and relevant history nearby. If you are helping a family member, let them decide who should be in the conversation. If you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.