An urgent or emergency medical condition can be frightening, especially when you don’t know what to do or where to go. That’s why it’s important to know how to access urgent or emergency care before the need arises.

What is an urgent medical condition?

Sprained ankles, most burns, minor wounds requiring stitches, back pain, chronic headaches, urinary tract infections and severe cold or flu are typical examples of urgent conditions. An urgent condition is not life threatening but may require prompt attention. Urgent care access standards require care on the same day or next day depending on the severity of the condition.

What is an emergency medical condition?

A “medical emergency” occurs when you reasonably believe that your health is in serious danger and every second counts. A medical emergency includes severe
pain, a bad injury, a serious illness, or a medical condition that is quickly getting much worse.

Emergency care is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at emergency facilities. If you experience a medical emergency, go to the nearest emergency
facility or call 911 for assistance.

Why is it important to know the difference between urgent and emergency conditions?

Knowing the difference between urgent and emergency medical conditions will help you determine how to obtain the most appropriate care, can save you costly copays and can ensure that you are treated as quickly as your condition requires.

What should I do when I’m traveling?

We offer worldwide health care coverage for medical emergencies, accidental injuries and urgent care. Remember that in an emergency situation you can always call 911 in the United States or go to the nearest emergency room.
Generally the site where you seek care will ask for your health insurance
card (your HAP or Alliance ID card) and call the number on the back for billing or coverage questions. If the physician or hospital does not recognize your ID card
and requires immediate payment for services, you are responsible for paying the hospital or physician. We will fully reimburse you for the covered services less any copays you are required to pay. Just send your receipts to:

Health Alliance Plan
Attention: Member Reimbursement
2850 W. Grand Blvd.
Detroit, Michigan 48202

If you are admitted to a hospital not affiliated with us, you or your designee should notify us within 48 hours at the number listed on the back of your ID card.

Click to review a complete list of approved Urgent Care Centers.

Please refer to your plan’s Evidence of Coverage for complete benefit information.