Health First Urgent Care

💡 Understanding "In-Network" with Your Health Insurance! 🏥

Choosing in-network providers means lower costs, simplified billing, and guaranteed coverage. Always check if your provider is in-network to avoid unexpected expenses. If not, consider out-of-network options, negotiate rates, or seek pre-authorization.

Stay informed by reading our quick 3-minute article.
https://healthfirstuc.com/what-does-in-network-mean-for-your-health-insurance/

The 4th of July is always filled with excitement and fun. Many people enjoy cookouts and a variety of outdoor activities. Here is a quick 3-minute read on safety tips for this holiday!

4th of July Safety Tips - Health First Urgent Care The 4th of July is always filled with excitement and fun. Many people enjoy cookouts and a variety of outdoor activities. The brilliant fireworks are the culmination of a fun-filled holiday.

Summer is here, and sun-related injuries happen. Check out our latest article regarding some of the top myths about sunburns, such as this one.

Myth: You can't get sunburned through glass.
Fact: Glass blocks UVB rays but not UVA rays. You can still get sunburned near windows or in cars without protection.

Top Sunburn Myths Summer is nearly here, and already we're enjoying warmer temperatures and sunshine here in the Tri-Cities. With the great weather comes the risk of sun-related injuries and illnesses. Below are the top sunburn myths that may help you plan for safer outdoor activities.

Summer is only days away... which means sun-related injuries. Do you know some of the top sunburn myths?

Check out this 3-minute article to learn about them all.

Top Sunburn Myths Summer is nearly here, and already we're enjoying warmer temperatures and sunshine here in the Tri-Cities. With the great weather comes the risk of sun-related injuries and illnesses. Below are the top sunburn myths that may help you plan for safer outdoor activities.

Confused about medical bills? 🏥 You’re not alone! Patients often pay at registration and receive another bill later. Why is that?

Read this 5-minute article to learn more about the essential insurance terms you should know.

Understanding Insurance Terms One of the most common complaints a medical practice receives is related to service billing. Patients will often be informed at registration that there is an expected amount due at that time to be seen.

Love hiking or biking in the natural areas around TriCities but hate bringing home unwanted hitchhikers like ticks? Here are some suggestions on how to keep you and your family safe from those nasty trail-side parasites.
1. Spray with 20% DEET on all exposed skin
2. If you prefer more natural repellents- ticks are repelled by Cypress, Juniper, Balsam, Lemon eucalyptus (just to name a few)
3. Wear white or light colored clothing - it makes it easier to spot ticks on your arms and legs
4. Stay on the trail- avoid the tall grasses and weeds
5. Spring and early summer are the worst months for ticks- keep that in mind
6. Check clothing- including shoes when you get home to avoid brining ticks inside.
7. Learn the proper way to remove any imbedded ticks
If you notice any redness, swelling, fever or headache following a tick bite- be sure to seek medical attention.

Ever wondered why your provider orders so many tests? 🤔 This 2-minute article will tell you why

Why Do Providers Order So Many Lab Tests? Have you ever wondered why your provider seems to order so many tests? There could be several reasons for the number or types of tests you might receive during an urgent care visit.

Area Famers Markets are now open for the season. June 17th is EAT YOUR VEGETABLES DAY -2024. Support local farmers and support your health too!

Laughter truly can be the best medicine. Laughter decreases pain and releases endorphins, which make you feel better. Laughter cause more oxygen consumption which helps you relax. Laughter also reduces blood sugar levels. A recent study found that watching a funny movie after eating reduced blood glucose levels. It also reduces the risk of cardiac conditions associated with Type 2 diabetes.
SO LAUGH MORE!!!! And Stay Well.

Join Health First Urgent Care as we celebrate Cinco de Mayo with everyone in the Tri Cities. Come out to Volunteer Park this Saturday, May 4th and join us for the parade, food, and festival. We will have a booth with giveaways for adults and children- so stop by and say "Hello" or "Hola"

🌿 Are seasonal allergies making life in the Tri-Cities challenging? Fear not! Our comprehensive guide offers practical advice to navigate allergy season like a pro. Learn how to minimize exposure to allergens and alleviate symptoms effectively. Take control of your health today!

Read More: https://www.healthfirstuc.com/post/managing-allergies-in-the-tri-cities

Managing Allergies in the Tri-Cities Whether you've lived in Washington for a short time or all your life, the Tri-Cities region can be challenging for those suffering from seasonal allergies. One reason this area is so difficult is that the weather tends to be more prone to moderate rainfall and temperatures, which contribute to polle...

We have added the video that was created by the awesome team at Spotted Fox Digital Marketing https://spottedfoxdigital.com/ that helped showcase Health First Urgent Care for our award from TriCities Regional Chamber of Commerce. We are very appreciative of our great staff and all the wonderful folks from the community that have chosen Health First Urgent Care for their urgent healthcare services.

https://vimeo.com/923969090/145f2a134c?share=copy

Health First Urgent Care_BOAR23 This is "Health First Urgent Care_BOAR23" by Spotted Fox Digital on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

Health First Urgent Care is proud to be the 2024 recipient of the Tri-Cities Regional Chamber of Commerce's BUSINESS ON A ROLL for large organizations. In an award luncheon yesterday, our team, lead by founder, CEO, and Medical Director, Dr. Kahlon received this honor.

🌸 Living in the Tri-Cities? Seasonal allergies got you down? Don't worry, we've got you covered with these expert tips to manage those pesky symptoms! From identifying triggers to scheduling outdoor activities wisely, these strategies will help you breathe easier.

Check them out!
https://www.healthfirstuc.com/post/managing-allergies-in-the-tri-cities

Managing Allergies in the Tri-Cities Whether you've lived in Washington for a short time or all your life, the Tri-Cities region can be challenging for those suffering from seasonal allergies. One reason this area is so difficult is that the weather tends to be more prone to moderate rainfall and temperatures, which contribute to polle...

Attention all Tri-Cities employers - Health First Urgent Care is excited to announce the expansion of our occupational medicine services to now include Audiogram testing, Spirometry, and Respirator Fit Testing.
If you and your employees need these or any other occupational medicine services- including Worker's Compensation injury management - please contact Mariana Marquez-Sital at 509-300-1500 ext. 192.
We look forward to serving the needs of our area businesses, employers, and employees.

Due to the inclement weather and poor road conditions - Health First Urgent Care will delay opening until 9 am on Friday, January 19th - so that our staff can travel safely. We apologize for any inconvenience to our patients.

New Year – New Deductible

The new year often brings exciting changes and the opportunity to start fresh. While this is great for rededicating yourself to better habits, saving money, or learning a new task, it can also be a negative when it comes to your healthcare finances. For many people (if not most), your health insurance plan resets itself on January 1 of each new year. At Health First Urgent Care, we would like to help you better understand how this may impact your healthcare out-of-pocket costs.
What does this mean for you?
Every medical insurance plan will have a deductible that covers the patient for ONE calendar year- typically Jan 1 through Dec 31. A deductible is a set dollar amount that YOU must pay out-of-pocket for your healthcare costs BEFORE your insurance will begin paying for services.
Why do we collect your deductible amounts or Copay at the time of service?
Most medical practices have agreements with insurance companies that dictate how services are paid for. We – as a medical service provider – are obligated to abide by the insurance company’s policies when it comes to collecting due payments for deductibles or copays from the patient. We are not permitted to discount or write those fees off.
Know what your deductible covers.
According to the Affordable Care Act, many ‘preventative’ healthcare services are covered regardless of your deductible. Things like Well Child visits, cancer screenings, and certain vaccinations are all covered at no cost to you.
Contact your insurance company so you can find out how costs related to prescription medications or services performed in the emergency room, urgent care, or specialist affect your deductible.

If you have questions about the cost of services or a bill you have received, please contact our billing department at 509-567-6450. We want you to know that we will work with you to set up payment plans that meet your needs and work for your budget.

Cold weather giving you the sniffles? It doesn't mean you have a cold or flu. For most healthy people, it is very normal to find you have a runny nose or sniffles when the weather turns cold. This is often due to the cold outside air mixing with the warm air in your lungs irritating your nasal passages and causing the glands in your nose to produce excess mucus.
You may notice that you have a worsening runny nose if you have asthma, eczema or other respiratory conditions. For a run of the mill runny nose, try over-the counter treatments such as an antihistamine (Benedryl, Claritin, Zyrtec). If you notice that your runny nose is worsening, or is thicker with color discharge, be seen by your physician or your local urgent care. Health First Urgent Care is here seven days a week to help you determine if its 'just' a runny nose or something else - all to help you get better SOONER.

Don't forget - Health First Urgent Care is ready to take care of your family as we look ahead to the upcoming cold & flu season. With onsite testing for strep throat, influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses, we are here to help you and your family get a quick diagnosis and begin treatment. We have two locations open 7 days a week to help you feel better faster.

Health First Urgent Care wishes to thank YOU- the great residents, businesses, and visitors of the Tri-Cities- for voting us BEST in Urgent Care. We strive to serve the people of the Tri-Cities and are very appreciative of this recognition.

Is your child ready to go BACK TO SCHOOL? Here are some tips to help get them (and YOU) prepare.
1. Boost their immunity: Encourage a healthy diet, regular exercise, plenty of sleep, and proper hygiene. Children tend to have amazing immune systems but it never hurts to give them a little help.
2. Refocus their sleep routine: It's easy for children to get out of the habit of getting plenty of sleep over the summer break. Start now by moving bedtime up a few minutes each night. Encourage them to begin waking up at the necessary time to prepare for school.
3. Reinforce their mental health: Talk to your children. See how they feel about the new school year coming up. This is especially important for children that are starting for the first time or changing schools. Encourage them to speak about their fears or concerns so you can help address them.
4. Promote digital safety: Teach your children about the dangers of social media/ internet applications. Be sure that YOU know who your child might be communicating with online. Set limits on use.
5. Get their eyes checked. Many learning issues stem from poor vision. Children's vision can change quickly as they grow. Make an appointment with the optometrist/ ophthalmologist to be sure your child's vision is healthy.
6. Be prepared as a parent. What is your morning or afternoon routine? Are you ready to help your child both before and after school? How can you make the routine successful for the whole family?

Summer heat in the TriCities can be hard to deal with - but add in the dry air of the high desert and it takes a toll on everything. Here are a few tips to help you stay cool and comfortable.
1. Keep you HVAC in good condition. Preventative maintenance will keep you from suffering through the hot months and save you money on your electric bills.
2. Run a humidifier. Adding some moisture to your home can keep your skin and sinuses from feeling overly dry. It can also keep your furniture and possession from drying out as well.
3. Stay hydrated. Drinking water is the key to good health but also in beating the heat.
4. Keep your vehicle in the shade. Interiors of cars can reach temperatures in excess of 150 degrees even on milder days. Using windshield screens or parking in the shade can help you not have to deal with extreme temperatures when you drive.
5. Avoid heat-generating tasks. Limit the use of your oven or other heat-producing appliances.

While we can't control the temperature, we can try to make it more bearable. But if you find that the heat or dry air is making your health suffer, then just know that Health First Urgent Care is here 7 days a week in both Richland and Pasco.

Summer colds - a few facts to help you survive summertime illnesses.

Most of us hate having a summertime cold. We much rather be baking in the sun while we enjoy the pool or beach instead of baking with a fever at home. Illnesses during the summer seem to feel far worse than catching a winter cold. In fact - there are real reasons why a cold in the summer is worse than one in the winter.

1. There are more viruses in the summer that tend to cause illnesses. While Rhinovirus, coronavirus, and influenza can occur any time of the year, the summer brings out enterovirus ( a tough virus spread through contact with saliva, mucus, or even f***s.)
2. Symptoms from summer illnesses tend to be more severe and last longer. Plus- an upset stomach often accompanies the other symptoms.
3. Summer colds tend to last longer. Yes- there is truth to becoming ill from being in the air conditioning.

What can you do? First, stay healthy and stay hydrated. Also, limit extended periods in the AC... this can restrict blood vessels in the nose and make it easier for a virus to find its way into the body. And lastly- and perhaps more importantly- WASH YOUR HANDS- FREQUENTLY. Good handwashing can prevent sharing of viruses.

If you do get sick, take care. And if you feel like you're getting worse or just not better, Health First Urgent Care is here for you 7 days a week - serving all of the TriCities.

The 4th of July is just a week away. Did you know that these are the most common injuries/illness resulting from the 4th Holiday?
1. Car accidents - this day has become a big travel day.
2. Boating/Swimming accidents - if you're going on the water- be sure to follow all the safety rules.
3. Food poisoning - be sure you're storing things properly
4. Hand/finger injuries - when it comes to bone and skin vs fireworks, the fireworks almost always win.
5. Eye/face injuries - be sure that children don't get sparklers or other fireworks too close to their faces or clothing
6. Heat exhaustion/Heat stroke - it's easy to get caught up in the holiday and forget about the effects of heat and sun. Drink plenty of water and cover your face and head.

If you have a minor illness or injury - Health First Urgent Care will be open regular hours at both our Richland and Pasco locations.