Do Urgent Cares Take Insurance? What to Know Before You Go
Do Urgent Cares Take Insurance? What to Know Before You Go
When an unexpected health concern pops up, urgent care is often the fastest and most convenient option — but many patients have the same question: Do urgent cares take insurance?
The short answer is: yes, most urgent care centers accept a wide range of insurance plans. But there are still a few important things to know before you walk in.
At Lincoln Urgent Care, we aim to make your visit as smooth and transparent as possible. Here’s what Rhode Island patients should know about urgent care billing, insurance coverage, and payment options.
What Types of Insurance Do Urgent Cares Accept?
Most urgent care centers — including ours — accept a variety of commercial insurance plans, as well as some government-sponsored plans. These may include:
1. Major private insurance carriers (Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, etc.)
2. Medicare
3. Medicaid (coverage and availability may vary by location)
It’s always a good idea to contact the clinic directly or check your provider’s website to confirm insurance acceptance. You can also review our FAQ page for common insurance questions.
What Happens If You’re Out of Network?
Even if the urgent care center is not in-network, you can still be seen — but you may pay a higher out-of-pocket cost. Urgent care visits are generally more affordable than emergency room visits, even when out of network.
Tip: Call your insurance provider or log into your insurance portal before your visit to check your urgent care benefits and cost-sharing amounts.
Copays and Out-of-Pocket Costs
Your total cost at urgent care depends on several factors:
1. Your insurance plan’s copay for urgent care visits
2. Whether services like X-rays or lab tests are needed
3. If you’re in- or out-of-network
4. Any unmet deductible
Many plans have a flat urgent care copay that’s clearly listed on your insurance card. For added clarity, our team is happy to walk you through costs when you arrive.
What If You Don’t Have Insurance?
If you don’t currently have health insurance, Lincoln Urgent Care still welcomes walk-ins. Many patients choose urgent care because it’s more affordable than the ER, even when paying out of pocket.
To learn more about self-pay options, you can contact us directly or speak with our front desk upon arrival.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
To make your visit quicker and more efficient, bring the following:
1. A valid photo ID
2. Your insurance card
3. A payment method for your copay or self-pay fee
4. Any referral or authorization your insurer may require
You can also complete forms ahead of time using our patient forms page.
Why Choose Lincoln Urgent Care?
Whether you’re insured, uninsured, or unsure about your coverage, Lincoln Urgent Care provides fast, compassionate service with transparent billing. Our experienced providers, convenient hours, and friendly staff make us a trusted choice for care in northern Rhode Island.
Helpful Resources
1. About Our Clinic
2. Patient Reviews
3. COVID-19 Testing Information
4. Occupational Medicine Services
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or financial advice. Coverage and payment details vary by plan. Please consult your insurer or urgent care provider directly for current billing information.