460th MDG reminds of ER, UCC procedures

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  • 460th Medical Group
The 460th Medical Group has an on-call provider that is available to assist with your urgent health care needs during non-duty hours.

The provider can be reached by calling the Buckley Appointment Line at 720-847-WELL (9355), where you can leave a message. The provider will make every effort to return your call in less than one hour.

The majority of after-hours care needed by our beneficiaries is for acute medical issues -- an illness or injury that requires attention within the next 24 hours.

The most common complaints are sore throats, fevers and minor injuries, such as sprains. In many instances, the on-call provider can take a history over the phone and recommend home care options, saving members the inconvenience and discomfort of seeking in-person care.

For issues that require professional evaluation, the provider may authorize treatment at a network urgent care center. Urgent care centers can treat most acute issues that affect beneficiaries with less wait time, faster treatment and cost about a third less than an emergency room visit.

Emergency room visits are to be reserved for a true emergency, which is defined as threat to life, limb or eyesight.

Given the recent Department of Defense financial restrictions, ER visits are going to be further scrutinized. If a visit is found to not be a threat to life, limb or eyesight, the member may receive a point-of-service bill for the care received. However, if you or your family members experience an illness or injury that threatens life, limb or eyesight, call 911 or go to the nearest ER immediately.

As always, the best place of care is with your assigned primary care manager. This enhances continuity of your medical needs and ensures any specialty care required can be coordinated and optimized to your health.

The 460th MDG is honored to be responsible for your health care, and we look forward to serving you and your family.