Your Rights

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If it's an emergency, you can get care at any hospital emergency room, even if it's not part of your HMO. Your HMO must pay for it.
If you are in a hospital that is not part of your HMO, your HMO may move you to a network hospital. Your condition must be stable, so that the move won't make it worse.
If you are in labor, you can go to any emergency room.
For more information, visit www.calpatientguide.org.

Be Prepared

Learn your plan's guidelines for emergency and urgent care.
Ask about the copayment for emergency room visits. It may be higher than other copayments.
Ask your doctor what to do if your child needs urgent care.
Ask about hospitals and urgent care centers in your HMO.
Keep your HMO membership card with you at all times.

When You're Traveling
Your HMO should pay for emergency and urgent care when you are out of its service area. You should call your HMO as soon as possible.

California Patient's Guide
A guide to health care rights www.calpatientguide.org

HMO Help Center
Information and help for California HMO members
(888) HMO-2219 www.hmohelp.ca.gov

Poison Hotline
Emergency help for victims of poisoning
(800) 222-1222 www.calpoison.org