In a true emergency, seek medical attention as soon as possible at the hospital emergency room. I have local hospitals listed on the Cluster Google Map, it would be a good idea to familiarize yourself with where they are, in case you should ever need to know.

What I am talking about here are medical problems where you would like to be seen the same day, but you do not feel that it is an emergency. If you go to the emergency room for something that is not an emergency (like for a sore throat or pink eye), they will see you and treat you, but will not admit you to the hospital. In a case like that, there is an additional charge by the insurance company. The emergency room is not to be used as your regular doctor.

Here is the link to the medical insurance information and claim forms: APIA Medical
You may go to any doctor or clinic you choose, but you will normally need to pay up front and submit a claim form to be reimbursed, if you meet your deductible ($0, $50 or $100 depending on your insurance plan.)

Urgent Care Clinics

These clinics all participate with our medical insurance as of 1/26/2011. This is subject to change, so verify when you make your appointment by telling them you have insurance through First Health Network/Hygeia.

Bowie Health Center
15001 Health Center Drive, Bowie, MD 20716
301-262-5511

Briggs Chaney Clinic - http://www.briggschaneyclinic.com/
13823 Outlet Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20904
301-890-8000

Righttime Care Centers – http://www.myrighttime.com/ – 1-888-808-6483
(formerly Nighttime Pediatrics & Adult Care)
Open 11am-Midnight daily. Appointments not required, but strongly encouraged (to reduce your wait time.)
Locations: Annapolis, Columbia, Gambrills, Pasadena and Rockville

Patient First – www.patientfirst.com
Open 8 am-10 pm daily. No appointment necessary.
Laurel, 301-497-1820
Waldorf, 240-427-1926

CVS Minute Clinic – www.minuteclinic.com
Open daily – Hours vary by location. No appointment necessary.
Locations including: Annapolis, Bethesda, Crofton, Ft. Washington, Laurel, Rockville, Upper Marlboro & Wheaton
For less complicated illnesses including: Allergies, Bladder Infections, Colds, Ear Infections, Pink Eye & Styes, Sinus Infections, Strep Throat, Swimmer’s Ear, Athlete’s Foot, Cold Sores, and Vaccinations.
Visit their website for a complete list of locations, conditions they will treat and the costs.

Secure Medical Care – http://securemedicalcare.com/
10452 Baltimore Avenue, Beltsville, MD
(Route 1, 1/2 mile north of IKEA)
(301) 441-3355
Monday-Friday 8am-8pm,
Weekends & Holidays 10am-6pm

Not listed on the insurance website, but I am including because it may be the closest option for some au pairs.

Quality First Healthcare -www.qualityfirsthealth.com
10905 Ft. Washington Road, Suite 105, Ft. Washington, MD 20744
301-292-9290
Visit their website for hours and more information.

I just updated the information on Places to go for Urgent Medical Care and added a new clinic.

I periodically review links and information on my blog for accuracy and make updates as needed.  If you ever find a broken link or information that needs to be updated, please let me know.  Thanks.