Urgent care centers are convenient for individuals who are experiencing minor to moderate health concerns. Before you head to a facility, however, it's important to ask yourself a few simple questions to ensure you're prepared for the visit. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before your visit.

What You Should Ask Before Visiting an Urgent Care Facility

Does my insurance policy cover a visit?

It's best to reach out to your insurance provider or visit your carrier's website to find out which urgent care centers are part of your insurance plan's network. When you go to an urgent care facility that is in-network, you can avoid steep costs for your services. You should still take a credit card or cash with you, as you'll likely be required to pay a deductible or copayment (depending on your insurance policy).

What is the point of the visit?

You should base whether you go to an emergency room or an urgent care center on the type of health issue you are experiencing. Urgent care centers typically have the equipment and medication to treat non-life-threatening illnesses, such as the flu, pink eye, urinary tract infections, and other illnesses that require antibiotics. Physicians at urgent care centers can also tend to fractures, burns, sprains, cuts, and other injuries.

What documents do I need?

Because an urgent care doctor isn't your primary physician, they won't have your medical chart on file. To get the doctor up to speed on your medical history quickly, make a list of your medications; current health conditions; and any procedures, such as surgeries or blood transfusions, you've had recently. Take your insurance card and write down the name and phone number of your primary care doctor, too.

How long must I wait?

To get help as soon as possible, look for an urgent care facility that offers extended business hours. You can also call on your way to the facility to inquire about the wait time to see a doctor or schedule a virtual appointment to speak with a physician remotely.

If you are experiencing a medical concern, contact the doctors at Taylor Regional Hospital in Campbellsville, KY. For over 50 years, the hospital has been providing urgent care and additional services to residents throughout the region. Learn more about how the team will help you online, and call (270) 465-3561 for assistance. Connect on Facebook for news alerts.