In an emergency

An emergency condition is defined as an major acute medical problem or major acute trauma that requires immediate medical attention, or a condition that could lead to serious harm if treatment is not received or is delayed.

What should I do if I have an emergency out of area?

Seek care. Your health and well-being are of greatest importance!

• You do not need to call YHP before receiving emergency treatment.
• Notify the Care Coordination Department at 203-432-7397 within 48 hours (2 business days) of receiving treatment so that we may coordinate insurance coverage with the provider from whom you received the emergency care.
• You are also covered away from campus for urgent situations.
• An urgent medical situation is the sudden and unexpected onset of an acute medical problem or trauma requiring immediate medical attention.
• Care for nonacute phases of chronic conditions, maintenance care, and routine care are not considered urgent.
• If you are able to, you can call Urgent Care (203-432-0123) or your clinician to obtain medical advice over the phone.
• If that is not possible or appropriate, you should seek the care you need.
• If you are away from New Haven County, you may receive urgent care at any medical facility and receive the same coverage as for emergency care, including usual and customary follow-up care if pre-authorized.

What happens if I circumstances prevent me from contacting YUHS within 48 hours?

If your condition prevents you or your representative from contacting the Care Coordination Department within 48 hours you will still be covered for the emergency, but you should contact Care Coordination as soon as possible to ensure that YHP clinical staff are aware of your condition and to request Care Coordination to authorize follow-up care should it be needed. Remember to carry your YHP card with you at all times; it can provide valuable information if you can’t communicate.

What if my emergency requires follow-up care?

Short-term follow-up care that is pre-authorized will be covered. YHP clinical staff will assist in coordinating follow-up care, if needed. For assistance with pre-authorization, call YHP’s toll-free number, 877-YHP-CARE.

What should I do if I have an emergency in New Haven?

The Urgent Care Department is an acute care service staffed around the clock by physicians, physicians associates and nurse practitioners trained to evaluate and treat most acute medical problems.

• For emergencies such as seizures, severe chest pain or difficulty breathing, immediately call 911 (off campus) or 111 (on campus).
• If uncertain about the severity of the problem you should call Urgent Care at 432-0123. 
• You will be advised either to call 911, to come to Urgent Care or to contact your primary care clinician.

“Urgent” problems are illnesses or injuries that require prompt care but will not generally cause loss of life or severe impairment if left untreated for a brief time.

“Emergency” refers to a situation where an illness is presently or potentially life threatening or threatens severe impairment if the patient is not seen immediately.

For same day access please call your primary care clinician.