Another way we can save money is by using emergency room and urgent care facilities more appropriately.  What does this mean?  Your first choice should be your primary care physician. Many doctor's offices have same day appointments and are open in evenings and on weekends. If that is not an option, go to your nearest walk-in care facility. Plan ahead and know where to go before you need it. But, if you are experiencing a real emergency, then you should go to the emergency room. 
 
Office based appointments are at least $250 less expensive per visit than urgent or emergency room care.  Although the amount you pay out of pocket is low, the overall cost is passed onto the University System, resulting in higher benefits costs overall.  If emergency rooms were used appropriately, USNH could save over $200,000 per year.