[acveilleux]

Even where there is at least gross-level of price transparency. Like in the case where you have to choose between an Urgent Care Center and an Emergency Department.

The former is much cheaper than the later in most cases. But how do you self-triage? There are 4 possible outcomes:

1. You go to an UCC and they treat you. You made the right choice and saved the most.

2. You go to an ED and they treat you but an UCC would've been enough. You made a mistake and pay more than you should.

3. You go to an ED and it was the right choice. Congratulations you saved money and got prompt care.

4. You go to an UCC, they can't treat you and refer you to an ED, you need need to pay both and quite possibly an ambulance ride for the transfer.

Now suppose you have sharp abdominal pain... Medically, the right thing to do is go to an ED (especially if you still have an appendix.) But will you gamble that the cheaper UCC is the right place? You have some chances of being right.

[jessaustin]

2. You go to an ED and they treat you but an UCC would've been enough. You made a mistake and pay more than you should.

In this case ED will often send the patient to their affiliated UCC located nearby.