It’s Vacation Time Again
Accessing Care and Coverage Concerns
As the busy vacation season approaches, many of you will be traveling outside the our service area. While we hope that none of you will need medical care while on vacation, we know that many of you have concerns about how to access care while away from home. Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about what to do when you are away from home.

What do I do if my child is running a high fever?
If possible, you should call your child's Primary Care Provider (PCP) for advice. Your PCP may be able to handle your child's needs over the phone or may direct you to seek services at the nearest urgent care or emergency facility. If you are unable to speak with your child's PCP or you feel that your child's condition is an emergency, you should take your child to the nearest emergency facility. Once you return home, notify your PCP.

What will it cost me if I have to go the emergency department when I'm on vacation?
A visit to an urgent care or emergency facility is the same, regardless of where it is located. Check your schedule of medical benefits to determine your plan’s cost. You may be asked to pay for the visit before you leave, especially at an urgent care center. If this happens, get an itemized bill from the facility when you check out. You will need to file this claim when you return home. Both your human resources department and FirstCarolinaCare have the claim forms available and will be happy to assist you in completing them.

If I am out of the area and get sick and a family member’s physician can see me, can I see that physician or should I just go to the emergency room?
Yes, you may see your family member’s physician. It will be treated the same as an urgent care visit. You must file this claim with FirstCarolinaCare Insurance Company in order for the claim to be paid correctly. Either mail the claim with an explanation to FirstCarolinaCare Insurance Company, 42 Memorial Drive, Suite 1, Pinehurst, NC, 28374, or bring it by our office located at the same address.

Please be sure to carry your ID cards for all members of your family who are covered by FirstCarolinaCare with you at all times, especially when traveling.

If you have any questions please call Member Services at (800) 811-3298.

Have a safe and healthy vacation!