Seeing a doctor while out state coverage (medical, clinic, BCBS)

[Surfertx]

I'm now living in my new state of residence and still covered with BCBSTX but it has only ER coverage when out state. My new insurance won't kick in until March first. I want to see a doctor before then. Should just pay the uninsured price for a doctor's visit or go to urgent care?

[BOBNCHI]

Originally Posted by Surfertx

I want to see a doctor before then..

I want or NEED? Big difference and only you can decide.

[RamenAddict]

Originally Posted by BOBNCHI

I want or NEED? Big difference and only you can decide.

3/1 is only 2 days away. One would think if the OP NEEDS to see a doctor now, it is an emergency that merits visiting an ER. Otherwise, he can wait 2 days. If he has the flu or some other issue that needs urgent care, many urgent care clinics charge pretty reasonable prices for a one-off visit. I live in a major metro area and I think the max is $140-150, but in other lesser markets, I imagine it is cheaper. In my old hometown, I could be seen for $60.

[Ariadne22]

How will you get a dr. appt. on such short notice? Today is Friday. March 1st is Sunday.

If you really need medical attention before Monday, visit Urgent Care. My visit in December was billed at $393. Medicare allowed $89 - a real bargain, imo. And, I got excellent care for the issue. Granted $393 is pretty high for those not on Medicare.

$150 seems more fair. Visit or call Urgent Care, tell them you are uninsured. Chances are they will quote you a much lower figure.

Also, I was able to book an appt 24 hours ahead online, which reduced the wait time to 20 min. on the day of the appointment. Otherwise, you could stuck for hours waiting to see someone.