Emergency room treatment for non-emergency medical conditions is a major contributor to the rising cost of health care.  The average emergency room visit costs $1,049, while the average physician’s office visit costs around $153.  Of course in an emergency you should go to the ER or call 911, but if you feel your condition does not require the ER, call your personal physician.  Here are some guidelines to follow in deciding.

When to Use the ER:
 Chest pain lasting two minutes or more
 Uncontrolled bleeding
 Sudden or severe pain
 Difficulty breathing; shortness of breath
 Sudden dizziness, weakness, or change in vision
 Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
 Confusion or change in mental status

When to contact your personal physician:
 Earaches
 Sore throats
 Fevers that respond to fever-reducing medications
 Ankle sprains and other strains of muscles or joints
 Coughs and colds
 Abdominal pain or other symptoms that resemble an illness that is “going around”
 Any situation where it would be convenient, but not necessary, to seek care from an ER