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NEWS | Nov. 12, 2013

Understand "Urgent Care" Before You Go

By Kathy Canfield 779th Medical Group Support Squadron

At Malcolm Grow Medical Clinics and Surgery Center (MGMCSC), Joint Base Andrews, we have a fully staffed, 24 hour a day Emergent Care Center (ECC), available for your urgent and emergency medical care needs. If you become ill after hours with an "urgent" condition (one that requires treatment within 24 hours) we encourage you to use the ECC at Joint Base Andrews.

For emergencies, a danger of losing life, limb, or eyesight due to injury or illness, call 911 when off base and call 522 on Joint Base Andrews. Always go to the nearest military or civilian hospital emergency room.

"Our ECC strives to provide the highest quality urgent and emergency medical care for you and your family. By working hand-in-hand with your Primary Care Manager (PCM), we are better able to coordinate follow-up treatment in a timely manner and improve overall continuity of care," said Maj. Clinton Wahl, ECC Flight Commander.

In this time of austere fiscal constraints it is critical we utilize our health care resources wisely, and hope you choose MGMCSC for your urgent care needs. If you prefer to use a civilian provider, please note that TRICARE requires prior authorization or you could risk incurring the cost of the visit.

The TRICARE health benefit further stipulates that routine care is not authorized when traveling out of the local area. For urgent medical concerns while traveling, contact your PCM by calling 240-857-2333 for a referral before using a civilian provider. Call Health Net (1-877-874-2273) for assistance in locating a provider.

At MGMCSC patients are our top priority. We appreciate your support and look forward to providing superior health care services to you and your family.