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What if it's an emergency and I need care after my PCP's office closes?


Most PCP’s have regular office hours. First Medical’s Provider Directory will tell you when your doctors’ offices are open. Most Primary Medical Groups also have clinics that are open late. But, you can call First Medical Health Plan’s Medical Advise Line anytime.

You can get emergency health care any time you need it. Always carry your ID card with you. In case of an emergency, doctors will know you have Vital. If you call the First Medical Health Plan Medical Advice Line before you go to the Emergency Room, you will not have to pay copayments.

First Medical Health Plan’s Medical Advice Line number is 1-844-347-7801.

Emergencies are times when there could be serious danger or damage to your health if you don’t get medical care right away.

Emergencies can be:

  • Shortness of breath, not able to talk
  • A bad cut, broken bone, or a burn
  • Bleeding that cannot be stopped
  • Strong chest pain that does not go away
  • Strong stomach pain that doesn’t stop
  • Seizures that cause someone to pass out
  • Not able to move your legs or arms
  • A person who will not wake up
  • Drug overdose

These are usually not emergencies:

  • Sore throat
  • Cold or flu
  • Lower back pain
  • Earache
  • Stomachache
  • Small, superficial, cuts
  • Bruise
  • Headache, unless it is very bad and like you’ve never had before
  • Arthritis

If you think you have an emergency, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Room (ER). If you can’t get to the ER, call 9-1-1.

If you need emergency care, you do not have to get authorization from First Medical before receiving medical care.

If you are not sure if it’s an emergency, call your PCP. You can call First Medical Health Plan’s Medical Advice Line at any time. Your PCP can help you get emergency care if you need it.

You can also call Vital Call Center for advice. Their phone number is on the back of your ID card. You can call twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week.