Healthcare Access Guidelines

We want to make sure you receive timely health care services. That's why we have set guidelines for how quickly you may be able to see your physician. Every year, we check to see how well we do against these guidelines.

Routine Physical Exams and Non-Urgent Office Visits

If your primary care physician is new to you, schedule a routine checkup. The average wait time for a new patient exam and preventive care exam is within 30 days after you call for an appointment. The average wait time for a routine, non-urgent visit is within 2 days.

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Medical Emergencies

If you have an emergency condition, you should go directly to an emergency facility or call 911. Call your primary care physician within 48 hours of receiving care. He or she will arrange for any follow-up care with Care Choices providers.

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Urgent Care

If your condition is urgent, but not an emergency, you should call your primary care physician for instructions, even if you are out of town. You should receive instruction within one calendar day.

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After-Hours Care

Your primary care physician has arranged for telephone coverage for urgent and emergency medical conditions 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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Office Wait Time

According to our guidelines, your doctor should see you within 30 minutes of your scheduled appointment time.

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Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Care Choices HMO offers 24-hour access to mental health professionals who assess and coordinate needed mental health and substance abuse services. Access to these services is provided through the Managed Behavioral Health Organization in your area. Our guidelines for mental health services are listed below.

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