When a child spikes a fever at 2 a.m. or a family member develops a worrisome rash on a holiday weekend, many Americans have traditionally faced a stark choice: wait until morning, or head to the emergency room. But as virtual healthcare becomes a cornerstone of modern medicine, families now have a better option, immediate, expert care from home, anytime, anywhere.

Nu Health Rx’s 24/7 virtual healthcare membership is transforming how families manage urgent health needs, dramatically reducing unnecessary ER visits and improving health outcomes for both children and adults. Here’s how after-hours access is changing the game.

The High Cost of the ER for Non-Emergency Needs

Emergency rooms are designed for life-threatening conditions, but studies show that up to 30% of ER visits are for non-emergency issues that could be managed elsewhere123. These visits not only burden hospital resources and drive up healthcare costs, but they also expose patients to long wait times and potential infections. For parents, especially, the stress of navigating the ER with a sick child, often in the middle of the night, can be overwhelming.

Virtual urgent care, on the other hand, is perfectly suited to address non-emergency but urgent needs, like fevers, rashes, minor injuries, or suspected infections, without the hassle or risk of a hospital visit452.

How 24/7 Virtual Care Works

Nu Health Rx offers members unlimited access to licensed medical providers via secure video calls, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in all 50 states67. Whether it’s a late-night fever, a holiday sore throat, or a weekend allergic reaction, families can connect with a provider in minutes, no appointment needed, no copays, and no insurance required.

Providers can diagnose common conditions, recommend treatment, and prescribe medications, all from the comfort and safety of home. If a condition requires in-person care, the provider will guide you on next steps, ensuring you get the right level of care at the right time.

The Impact: Fewer ER Visits, Better Outcomes

Research consistently shows that access to virtual care reduces unnecessary ER and urgent care visits. For example, a Cigna study found that patients who used virtual providers had 19% fewer visits to the ER or urgent care23. Another study showed that telehealth emergency care led to a nearly 50% reduction in in-person ER visits for non-emergency conditions, while also lowering healthcare costs and improving patient satisfaction158.

Virtual care is especially effective for:

• Non-emergency but urgent symptoms: Fevers, coughs, rashes, minor injuries, and suspected infections can often be managed virtually, avoiding the ER altogether.

• After-hours and weekend needs: When clinics are closed, virtual care provides immediate access to expert advice, reducing anxiety and preventing delays in treatment.

• Chronic condition management: Ongoing support for conditions like asthma or allergies can prevent flare-ups that might otherwise land patients in the ER.

Real-Life Benefits for Families

For parents, the ability to consult a provider at any hour means peace of mind and fewer sleepless nights. Virtual visits are quick, often under 10 minutes, and can be scheduled around busy family routines. Prescriptions are sent directly to your local pharmacy or delivered to your door, so you never have to leave home unless absolutely necessary67.

Studies also show that patients who use virtual care are highly satisfied, with most reporting that they would use it again and recommend it to others5. The convenience, speed, and personalized attention make virtual care a preferred choice for managing urgent but non-emergency health needs.

When to Use Virtual Care and When to Go to the ER

Virtual care is ideal for:

• Fevers, coughs, and colds

• Rashes, hives, and minor allergic reactions

• Minor injuries and sprains

• Earaches, sore throats, and sinus infections

• Urinary tract infections and other common illnesses

Go directly to the ER or call 911 for:

• Difficulty breathing or severe chest pain

• Signs of stroke (sudden weakness, speech difficulty)

• Major trauma, severe bleeding, or broken bones

• Loss of consciousness or seizures

The Future of Family Healthcare

With Nu Health Rx, families no longer have to rely on the ER for after-hours care. The 24/7 virtual model is not just a convenience, it’s a proven way to reduce unnecessary hospital visits, lower healthcare costs, and improve health outcomes for everyone123.

By making expert care accessible anytime, anywhere, Nu Health Rx is helping families stay healthy, safe, and in control, beyond the clock.

Nu Health Rx is not insurance. Coverage and medication availability are subject to clinical evaluation and guidelines. For more information, visit NuHealthRx.com.