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Choosing the Right Level of Care:

March 19, 2025 by Deidre Mings

Avoid Unnecessary ER Visits

Knowing where to go for medical care can save you time, money, and stress. Many non-emergency health concerns can be treated outside the emergency room, allowing you to receive appropriate care without long wait times or high costs. Missouri State University employees have access to several healthcare resources to help determine the best option for their needs.

When to Seek Non-Emergency Care

Not every medical situation requires a trip to the ER. For minor illnesses and injuries, consider these alternatives:

1. Nurse On Call (For MSU-Insured Employees and Dependents Without a Mercy PCP)

When you have after-hours medical questions and aren’t sure where to seek treatment, Nurse On Call is available to assist.

✔️ Listen to your health concerns
✔️ Assess your situation
✔️ Provide treatment guidance
✔️ Help determine the best option for care

Contact Nurse On Call:
📞 417.841.5566

For MSU employees established with a Mercy Primary Care Provider, call your provider’s office number after hours for Mercy On Call assistance.

2. Magers Health and Wellness Center (On-Campus Care for MSU Employees and Students)

📍 Location: Missouri State University Campus
🔗 Magers Health and Wellness Center
Magers offers a variety of medical services, including routine care, urgent care, and lab testing. Check their website for available services and hours.

3. Mercy Urgent Care (For Non-Emergency Situations Requiring Immediate Attention)

If you need prompt care but it’s not an emergency, Mercy Urgent Care is a great option. They handle conditions like minor cuts, sprains, flu, and infections.
🔗 Find a Mercy Urgent Care Location

When to Go to the ER

The ER should only be used for life-threatening emergencies, such as:

  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe bleeding
  • Signs of stroke (sudden confusion, weakness, trouble speaking)
  • Severe head injuries
  • Major fractures or burns
  • etc.

ER Visit Copays:

  • Buy-Up Plan: $250 copay
  • Base Plan: $500 copay

Additional Benefits for MSU Employees

Accident Insurance Reimbursement
Employees enrolled in the accident insurance plan can receive reimbursement for one non-accident-related physician visit per year, which can include an urgent care or primary care visit. Learn more: Accident Insurance Information.

Accident-Related Emergency Room Benefits
For injuries resulting from an accident, MSU’s Group Voluntary Accident Insurance through Allstate provides additional financial protection. Covered benefits include:

  • Initial Hospitalization Confinement: $1,000 – $1,500 (depending on plan level)
  • Hospital Confinement: $200 – $300 per day
  • Intensive Care Confinement: $400 – $600 per day
  • Ambulance Services: $200 – $300 for ground transport, $600 – $900 for air transport
  • Medical Expenses: Up to $500 – $750 per accident
  • Emergency Room Treatment for Accidents: Covered under the accident insurance policy

For full details on coverage levels and benefits, visit Allstate Benefits Accident Insurance.

Choosing the right level of care ensures you get the treatment you need while avoiding unnecessary costs and delays. Use these resources to make informed healthcare decisions and stay healthy!

Stay Informed
Get HR news, benefits updates, and professional development opportunities by following the HR Blog. Stay updated on wellness events and activities by following the Wellness Blog.

 

 


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Filed Under: Employee Benefits Tagged With: Accident insurance, Allstate, employee wellness, health, health plan, insurance, Magers, medical, Medical Insurance, Mercy, nurse on call, wellness

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