how much does urgent care visit cost without insurance

Urgent Care Visit Cost: Insurance vs. No Insurance

Due to lower costs and convenience, urgent care centers and stand-alone health clinics are becoming more popular. As of 2019, across the United States, there were around 9,616 urgent care centers . But what do they treat at an urgent care clinic ? How much does it cost compared to going to the ER? What if you don’t have insurance? We’ll cover these questions and more, plus offer cost-saving advice.

What is Urgent Care?

Healthcare .gov defines urgent care as “Care for an illness, injury or condition serious enough that a reasonable person would seek care right away, but not so severe it requires emergency room care.”

In other words, it’s the middle ground between assessing bug bites and performing surgery. Urgent care centers provide relief without the wait or expense of going to your hospital’s emergency department. 

Urgent Care Visit vs. Emergency Room Visit

Hospital emergency rooms are usually busier and always more expensive than urgent care centers . The cost of an ER visit varies, but the average cost is around $1,200. So when you can’t see your primary care physician or normal health care provider , a trip to urgent care is usually the most cost-friendly move.

Typical urgent care services include minor medical treatments that you can get at the doctor’s office such as:

• Urinary tract infections
• Upper respiratory infections
• Sore throat  
• Strep throat
• STD treatment and diagnosis

When should you go to the ER ? 

• Chest pain and other signs of a heart attack
• Problems breathing
• Weakness or numbness on one side
• Slurred speech
• Serious burns
• Head injury
• Broken bones
• Dislocated joints

Types of Procedures Offered at Urgent Care Facilities  

Besides physical exams, urgent care may provide the following procedures: 

• Minor surgical procedures (stitches, mole removal, cauterization, incision and drainage, cyst extraction, fingernail or toenail removal)
• Pap smear testing
• STD testing
• Pregnancy tests
• Blood tests (complete blood count, metabolic panels, enzymes, cholesterol, triglyceride)
• Flu tests and COVID-19 tests

Interested in learning more about procedure costs? Use this price comparison tool to quickly access the costs of these procedures (and lots of others) from providers in your area. 

Compare Procedure Costs Near You

How Much Does a Trip to Urgent Care Cost if You Have Insurance?

All ACA-compliant health insurance plans cover emergency care, though not all insurers define what emergency care is in the same way. So, most insurance plans cover urgent care , and your out-of- pocket costs will likely be cheaper than an ER visit.

Most insurance plan providers encourage the use of urgent care clinics during off-hours, weekends, and holidays — when you can’t see your regular doctor — by charging fees and copays similar to an office visit with a primary care provider. However, some plan providers, like TRICARE, only allow you to visit urgent care clinics that are within your network up to two times each year without prior authorization. 

The typical copay for urgent care is between $25 and $50. Your insurance company sets the rates, and they may vary. 

The average out-of- pocket costs for an urgent care visit if you have insurance breaks down like this: 

Copay and/or coinsurance + deductible (if applicable) = out-of- pocket costs

To find out exactly how much you will have to pay, consult your health insurance plan policy’s explanation of benefits (EOB).

How Much Does Urgent Care Cost for Uninsured Patients ?

In the United States, 5.4 million laid-off workers became uninsured between February and May 2020, an increase that is 39% higher than any other in modern history. 

The average cost of an urgent care visit is $100 to $200, according to American Family Care, the largest urgent care clinic in the United States.

Depending on your medical needs , this could be much higher. Procedures like lab tests and X-rays will increase the amount of your final bill.

Urgent Care Alternatives

Many people go to the ER for simple medical care when they are between paychecks or have a high deductible insurance plan, because an emergency department (unlike urgent care) is obligated to provide care to all patients regardless of their ability to pay. 

If you fall into this category or have no insurance , the following urgent care alternatives may fit your needs:

• Free clinics: Many communities offer free or low-cost health care clinics. The cost of using these clinics usually depends on your income or ability to pay. State and local health departments also offer deeply discounted services similar to urgent care clinics . Additionally, there are around 1,400 charity hospitals and clinics across the United States. 
• Retail health clinics: Chains like CVS and Walgreens, as well as big-box stores like Target and Walmart, offer minor medical care via retail health clinics (RHC). RHCs offer walk-in health care services in select stores across the United States. The average cost for treatment at an RHC is around $100.
• Telehealth: This is one of the most budget-friendly ways to access health care today. According to United Healthcare , the average cost for telehealth, currently around $50, is about 50% less than most urgent care visit costs. You don’t need to have insurance to use telehealth either. CVS offers telehealth visits via the Minute Clinic .

How to Save on Your Urgent Care Visit Cost

If you are covered by insurance, make certain to go to an urgent care clinic that accepts your specific insurance plan . Calling your provider is the best way to avoid the unhappy surprise of unmet urgent care costs. 

If you’re wondering how you can save money on your out-of- pocket costs , you have a few options. For one, many urgent care clinics offer discounted rates of up to 20% off when you pay in cash. And you can always visit Aunt Bertha , the website that connects you with partners in your area. Their mission is to provide community support, including financial help for medical bills, prescriptions, copays , and deductibles . 

Sometimes when you have to go to an urgent care center , you don’t have time to worry about the costs of tests and procedures. But when possible, looking up prices on Compare.com puts you in control of your health care , helping you make better, more informed decisions.  

Disclaimer: Compare.com does not offer medical advice and is in no way a substitute for any medical advice received from health professionals. Compare.com is unable to offer any advice on any medical procedure you may need.

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How Much Does Urgent Care Cost Without Insurance?

• For individuals without health insurance, the average trip to urgent care can cost anywhere from $150 to $200.
• Factors impacting urgent care costs include location and services provided.
• Free or discounted healthcare options exist, but urgent care is not entirely free without insurance.

How Much Is Urgent Care Without Insurance?

Finding affordable urgent care, uninsured self-pay costs at urgent care, how much is a physical at urgent care without insurance, how much is std testing at urgent care without insurance, is urgent care free without insurance, going to urgent care without insurance, when should i go to urgent care, when should i go to the emergency room instead of urgent care, how can i reduce my out-of-pocket cost of urgent care, solv can help you find an urgent care clinic near you.

• Frequently Asked Questions

When you have a pressing medical issue, your first priority is getting to see a doctor, quickly. Getting an appointment with your primary care provider can be difficult on short notice—especially if you need to be seen during “off-hours” on the weekend, in the evening, or even on a holiday. The great news is you don’t have to have an appointment to see a medical provider at urgent care centers .

Urgent care clinics offer high-quality medical care and extended hours, as well as pricing that is usually more affordable than a visit to the emergency room.

If you don't have health insurance, healthcare costs may be a huge concern. Based on data collected for Solv ClearPriceTM (for individuals without health insurance) the national average for a base visit to an urgent care can cost about $150.

Depending on the specific services you need and the severity of your injury or illness (as well as the location of the clinic), that price could increase to $350+ in total. That’s still cheaper than an emergency room visit, which can cost upward of $2,600 on average, according to United Health.

Factors That Impact the Cost of Urgent Care

The actual cost of an urgent care visit can be difficult to pinpoint because each clinic charges different prices based on the services you need and the fluctuating national averages of healthcare services.

A few of the main factors that may affect your urgent care costs , based on internal Solv research, include:

Complexity of your condition

The type of urgent care facility you go to and how long your visit lasts

If you have health insurance, your health insurance provider, what your insurance plan covers, and your coinsurance responsibility

Below is more specific details on the factors that impact your urgent care costs the most:

Urgent care location

The location of your preferred urgent care clinic has an impact on your cost of treatment. According to data from Solv ClearPriceTM, the service prices at urgent care clinics vary from city to city and from rural locations to urban locations.

Services provided

The range of services that any urgent care provides to you will depend on your condition and the severity of your condition. These services have a big impact on the overall cost of your visit. Things like X-rays, laboratory tests, stitches , and bandaging all come at a cost.

According to the Mayo Clinic, some urgent care locations use a pre-defined level of care to calculate the cost of your visit. There are typically three to four different levels of care. Standard care visits for minor problems like earaches and sore throats are on the lower end of the cost spectrum—usually considered level 1 or level 2. But if you break a bone, require stitches, or have a more severe medical issue, that would be considered a level 3 or 4 visit. Some of the most common services that urgent care clinics provide care for include:

Strep throat testing and treatment

Treatment of mild to moderate skin infections

Treatment for upper respiratory infections

Testing and treatment for bronchitis

Testing and treatment for urinary tract infections

Providing a tetanus shot if you’ve suffered a laceration

Stitches for laceration repair

Urgent Care Cost vs. Emergency Room Cost

Compared to getting emergency care, urgent care is often much more affordable for getting immediate care for minor illnesses and injuries such as flu symptoms. According to Debt.org, an emergency room visit can run you around 10 times more expensive than a visit to an urgent care clinic.

If you don't have insurance, finding affordable urgent care is important. Below are some tips from Solv for finding the most cost-efficient urgent care clinics.

Research low-cost clinics in your area - Look for clinics in your area that advertise low costs or fees based on a sliding scale.

Consider telemedicine - Some urgent care clinics offer virtual urgent care visits for a lower cost than in-person visits.

Ask about payment plans - Some urgent care clinics offer payment plans to help patients manage the cost of their care.

Compare prices - Call different urgent care clinics in your area and ask about their prices. You may be able to find a clinic that offers a lower price for the same services.

Consider a walk-in clinic: A walk-in clinic is often a more cost-effective option for uninsured individuals with mild to moderate conditions, like the flu.

Even if you do not have insurance, you can still receive medical care at an urgent care clinic. However, you will need to pay for services you receive on your own—this is known as “self-pay”. As we mentioned above, the cost of these services will depend on the urgent care you visit and the type of care you need.

Benefits and Drawbacks of a Self-Pay Option

The self-pay option at urgent care can be beneficial because you can get medical care without the hassle of dealing with deductibles, copays, or other insurance-related fees. Additionally, there may be some urgent care clinics that offer discounts for self-pay patients .

However, a drawback of the self-pay option is that the cost of medical care can be expensive. With a base cost of around $150, according to SolvClearPriceTM, and additional costs for tests and treatments, the bill can quickly add up.

Uninsured Self-Pay Costs vs. Insured Co-Pay Costs

If you have insurance, the cost of urgent care visits will depend on your coverage. You may have to pay a copay for each visit, and if you have not met your deductible, you may need to pay the full cost of the visit until you do.

In comparison, the self-pay option can be more expensive than insurance—but not in every case. If you have health insurance, you can review your plan documents or call a representative to find out what your co-pay and deductibles are.

A physical exam may also be known as a “routine check-up”. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is useful to help evaluate your overall health and help prevent you from developing a chronic health condition (like diabetes or heart disease).

Physical exams involve a series of tests and assessments to check for potential health problems, such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, or signs of cancer. A physical exam can also help to identify any risk factors that may contribute to the development of certain health conditions (like obesity or family history).

According to Forbes, the cost of getting a physical exam at urgent care is around $138 on average. It's important to note that additional tests or treatments may be necessary based on the results of your physical exam, which can increase the overall cost of your visit.

If you’re due for your annual physical and your primary care physician is booked out for a while, going to urgent care can be a good option for you.

STD testing is an important part of maintaining good health. The CDC recommends that sexually active people get tested at least once a year for common STDs . Urgent care clinics are a fast and cost-effective way to get STD testing. A huge benefit to getting tested at urgent care is that you can get treatment right away if you test positive.

The average cost of STD testing at urgent care can vary depending on the type of tests you get and the location of the clinic. The cost may be higher if you need additional tests or treatments.

Healthcare costs are a concern for many people, especially if you’re uninsured. While urgent care is generally more affordable than an emergency room visit, it's not free. However, there may be some free or discounted healthcare services available to you, if you meet certain criteria. These include things like planned parenthood, public health, or student health centers if you are enrolled in a school, college, or university.

Free Healthcare Options

Some communities offer free or discounted healthcare services, for some things. These services are usually paid for through government grants or run by volunteers, according to the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC).

The range of services provided by these centers varies, depending on their location and the scope of practice of those who work there. Those who are eligible to receive care will also vary, depending on each clinic or health center. In general, the NAFC notes that you may need to meet certain income or residency requirements. However, there are some health centers that will provide services to anyone.

Free Health Services vs. Urgent Care

While free health services may be a good option for some patients, it's not a substitute for establishing care with a primary care physician and not a substitute for getting emergency care if you need it, advises the NAFC.

If you don't have insurance, getting medical care can be expensive and stressful. However, urgent care clinics can offer affordable payment plan options for those who need immediate medical attention.

When you visit an urgent care center without insurance, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to bring all the necessary documents with you that you may need. These include:

Your identification

Your mailing or billing address

Contact information for your next of kin

Your medical history and a list of any medications you take

A form of payment

If you’re wondering how much you may have to pay after your visit, give the urgent care a call before you go and ask about their fees and what their payment options are.

Urgent care clinics are designed for people with a medical concern that is urgent but not necessarily an emergency. According to Solv’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Rob Rohatsch, these non-emergency conditions can include:

Cuts, minor burns , and rashes

Fever, cough , and sore throat

Ear infection

Insect or animal bites

Mild asthma

Immunizations

Falls, sprains, and broken bones

Additionally, some urgent care clinics offer limited lab tests, including:

Blood tests

Pregnancy tests

Drug screening

Strep and flu tests

Although urgent care is not a replacement for seeing your primary care physician, it can be an excellent choice if you are unable to wait for an appointment with your PCP.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a potentially life-threatening condition, you should go immediately to an emergency room for care, the Mayo Clinic. These include symptoms of conditions like:

Heart attacks

Severe asthma attacks

Traumatic injuries

Severe allergic reactions

Severe respiratory illness

In some cases, if you go to an urgent care clinic and the healthcare professionals there determine that you need more specialized care, they will refer you or transfer you to a nearby emergency room.

You are the best advocate for your healthcare and your finances—so before you head to urgent care, it is perfectly acceptable to contact the clinic and ask questions to get a better idea of how much the visit will cost. Calling ahead can also help you determine if you need to go to urgent care or if your medical condition can be addressed in a telemedicine appointment.

Some questions you may want to consider are:

How much is the office visit fee?

What additional expenses will I be charged?

Do you think I will need tests and, if so, what is the cost?

Do you think I will need an X-ray and, if so, what is the price?

You can get a better idea of what you’ll be charged for an urgent care visit using Solv’s ClearPriceTM online tool. This tool can help you save money on healthcare even if you have health insurance because it gives you an idea of the average “self-pay” rates at a clinic.

If you’re looking for an urgent care clinic, our lab finder can help you find an urgent care clinic near you.

Solv’s telehealth services providers can also help you assess your injury or illness to determine if you need to go to an urgent care clinic and then get you connected with referrals and follow-up appointments.

Frequently asked questions

Do i need an appointment to visit an urgent care center.

No, you don't need an appointment to visit an urgent care center. You can walk in and get medical attention, especially during off-hours when your primary care provider may not be available.

How much does an urgent care visit cost without insurance?

The national average for a base visit to an urgent care center is about $150 for individuals without health insurance. However, depending on the specific services you need and the severity of your injury or illness, the price could increase to $350 or more.

How does the cost of an urgent care visit compare to an emergency room visit?

An urgent care visit is usually more affordable than an emergency room visit. On average, an emergency room visit can cost upwards of $2,600, which is significantly higher than the cost of an urgent care visit.

What factors can affect the cost of an urgent care visit?

The cost of an urgent care visit can be affected by several factors, including the location of the clinic, the specific services you need, and the severity of your condition. For example, services like x-rays , laboratory tests, stitches, and bandaging all come at a cost.

How can I find affordable urgent care if I don't have insurance?

To find affordable urgent care without insurance, you can research low-cost clinics in your area, consider telemedicine options, ask about payment plans, and compare prices between different urgent care clinics.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of the self-pay option at urgent care?

The self-pay option at urgent care can be beneficial because it allows you to get medical care without dealing with deductibles, copays, or other insurance-related fees. Some clinics may even offer discounts for self-pay patients. However, the cost of medical care can be expensive, and the bill can quickly add up.

What are some conditions that can be treated at an urgent care clinic?

Urgent care clinics can treat a variety of non-emergency conditions, including cuts, minor burns, rashes , fever , cough, sore throat , ear infection , insect or animal bites , UTIs, STDs, allergies , mild asthma, and minor injuries like falls, sprains, and broken bones .

When should I go to the emergency room instead of urgent care?

You should go to the emergency room instead of urgent care if you are experiencing symptoms of a potentially life-threatening condition, such as a heart attack , severe asthma attack, stroke, traumatic injuries, severe allergic reactions, or severe respiratory illness.

Molly Frank, a seasoned Healthcare Copywriter from Gillette, Wyoming, merges over a decade of healthcare experience with expert business marketing acumen to craft compelling narratives for medical organizations. As a Gillette College alumna, Molly's diverse skill set encompasses copywriting, digital and email marketing, blogging, lead generation, social media and direct mail marketing, advertising, user experience writing, and content marketing.

Dr. Rob Rohatsch leverages his vast experience in ambulatory medicine, on-demand healthcare, and consumerism to spearhead strategic initiatives. With expertise in operations, revenue cycle management, and clinical practices, he also contributes his knowledge to the academic world, having served in the US Air Force and earned an MD from Jefferson Medical College. Presently, he is part of the faculty at the University of Tennessee's Haslam School of Business, teaching in the Executive MBA Program, and holds positions on various boards, including chairing The TJ Lobraico Foundation.

• Urgent Care Costs. (April 30, 2024) https://www.forbes.com/advisor/health-insurance/urgent-care-cost/
• What Are My Care Options and Their Costs? (April 30, 2024) https://www.uhc.com/member-resources/where-to-go-for-medical-care/care-options-and-costs
• Emergency Rooms vs. Urgent Care Centers. (April 30, 2024) https://www.debt.org/medical/emergency-room-urgent-care-costs/
• How Much Does An Urgent Care Visit Cost In 2023? (April 30, 2024) https://www.forbes.com/advisor/health-insurance/urgent-care-cost/
• Strep Throat. (April 30, 2024) https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/strep-throat/symptoms-causes/syc-20350338
• Physical Exam. (April 30, 2024) https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17366-physical-examination
• STDs. (April 30, 2024) https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htm
• NAFC. (April 30, 2024) https://nafcclinics.org/get-involved/volunteer/
• Competitive Pricing at Burbank Urgent Care. (April 30, 2024) https://www.burbankurgentcare.com/prices
• telemedicine
• healthcare costs
• urgent care

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How Much Does Urgent Care Cost: With and Without Insurance?

Sidecar Health

October 19, 2021

First things first: what is “urgent care”? Say, you have a sudden health condition that’s concerning to you but doesn’t necessarily rise to the level of a true emergency in your opinion, like a troubling rash or gnarly bug bite. You call your primary doctor, and they are booked for three weeks solid. Enter urgent care. 

Urgent care may be warranted when you feel you’re in a situation that isn’t necessarily an emergency but you would like to see a medical provider before you’d be able to make it in to see your primary doctor. The types of services generally provided by urgent care include providing treatment and prescribing medication for fevers, allergic reactions, ear infections, urinary tract infections, sprains and strains. 

Now that we’ve established a few of the use cases for urgent care, the question of cost remains. So, how much is urgent care with or without insurance?

It’s best to explore the differences and generalized costs to determine the right option in the event that you need care, so that you can make a good choice for yourself when it is necessary. Because of that, we’re glad you’re here! Comparing the cost of urgent care visits with emergency care, as well as what it costs for an appointment with your primary care provider will help you decide when to schedule a visit for each in relation to your situation. That said, you should never compromise your healthcare needs based on the financial implications for treatment alone. Your health should always be the number one priority. 

Cost of Urgent Care Visits and Treatment

Urgent care centers are considered a half-way measure between a primary care physician and a visit to the emergency room for services. They are convenient because they primarily take walk-in appointments and offer services during extended times beyond that of the typical doctor’s office. 

If you are covered by a traditional health insurance plan, urgent care may be covered in full. This depends on the details of your individual plan: if you have a deductible and the deductible has been met, if you have coinsurance, if the urgent care center you visit is in-network or out-of-network, and so forth. 

If you don’t have insurance, it’s another story of course. An urgent care visit is often a fraction of what an emergency room visit would cost. However, most patients are looking at a minimum of $100 to $150 for a walk-in urgent care visit depending on their copay–even at relatively affordable clinics. On top of this, there may be additional costs for lab work, X-rays or prescriptions needed, depending on the situation.

The quality of the care you may receive is also something to consider. Urgent care facilities are generally staffed by family care physicians who can provide the same types of services as offered in a general practitioner’s office. Keep in mind, they do not keep medical histories as your primary care provider does. Although they perform a similar intake during your visit regarding symptoms, allergies, and previous ailments or medical history, they do not keep this on file for every time you return. 

Additionally, urgent care facilities are not equipped with the same sophisticated equipment and technology as a primary care provider or emergency room necessary to handle critical conditions. Many urgent care centers have X-ray machines and perform lab testing. However, certain urgent care clinics may not have this availability. If this is relevant to your situation, you may want to call ahead of time to determine if they have the machinery or services that you think you may require.

Walk-in clinics are also largely staffed by nurse practitioners versus family medicine doctors and can be found in most local pharmacies or grocery stores, making it more convenient to find a location where you can be seen right away.

Cost of Emergency Care and Treatment

Emergency care and medical treatment costs are much higher and more advanced due to the nature of the condition and the convenience of care. Although urgent care service facilities and walk-in clinics often offer extended evening hours and weekend times, emergency rooms are open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. Seeking emergency room treatment should be limited to life-threatening injuries or symptoms only. These may include but aren’t limited to: 

• Trouble breathing
• Severe abdominal or chest pain
• Internal bleeding
• Spiked fevers, especially among children
• Severe head or eye injuries

Emergency room visits may also be covered under most health insurance plans, though there is a co-pay, which is higher than the cost of an urgent care visit. As an example, visiting the ER for a respiratory infection costs approximately $100 for an urgent care visit, while it could cost over $1,000 for treatment at the emergency room. 

Furthermore, you’ll want to consider the cost of an ambulance ride, if applicable, which may be separate from the visit itself. The cost of an ambulance ride can range from $25 to $1,200 depending on if the individual has insurance coverage. Similar to urgent care, you can be admitted to the ER without insurance, although you will be responsible for full payment for care upon being discharged. 

Regardless of whether you have health insurance coverage or not, it’s important to evaluate whether or not the treatment you need is truly an emergency. The decision may vary depending on the person and the condition. If you’re unsure about whether or not to make a visit to the ER, consider the severity of the pain, condition, or injury and whether the cost is worth it.

Primary Care Provider Cost and Treatment

What is a PCP (primary care physician)? A primary care physician is generally your main point of contact in terms of healthcare. They help you with preventive care and ongoing treatment. Although they may handle emergency situations, at times, they are likely not fully equipped or fully staffed to handle life-threatening situations. They may have a preferred urgent care or ER to recommend when those types of situations arise. However, to meet the standard of care required for an emergency situation is not what a primary care doctor is trained for.

The cost of a PCP visit depends on the level of your health insurance plan, the reason and frequency of visits, type of provider network, as well as the particulars of your health insurance plan, like your deductible and copay.

Some PCPs offer primary care plans, which often allow members to pay a flat or discounted cost to be seen by their primary physician. This is not a form of insurance, to be clear, but may help to curb costs over time if you seek care regularly.

If your symptoms aren’t too severe or life-threatening but you don’t have a designated PCP at the time when you need assistance, you may be better off seeking medical care at an urgent care clinic. For one, it can take some time to find the right PCP for you and once you do, it could be a bit of a wait before they have availability to see you. 

If you do have a PCP, your best bet is to give their office and call and ask for a recommendation. After all, the call is free.

Negotiating Medical Bills

Did you know you can actually negotiate your medical bills? In fact, with just a little effort, you can actually cut your bill quite a bit. When it comes to reducing the price of your medical bill, make sure you study all costs and do your research. Procedures, services, supplies, and transportation can all influence the overall price. Make sure you review all charges to make sure they are accurate before making a payment. 

Once you have all the facts, pick up the phone and call your health insurance provider. While speaking to a representative, learn about your different options and ask plenty of questions. In some cases, you may be able to ask for medical forgiveness. Regardless of your situation, the best thing you can do is talk to your provider and learn about the different options available to you.

https://www.debt.org/medical/emergency-room-urgent-care-costs/

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How much does urgent care cost?

Reserve Your Time

The cost of a visit to the emergency room or an urgent care center can vary based on where you are geographically, whether you are in-network or out of network, and which location you visit.

For non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, urgent care centers can typically offer substantial cost savings over a visit to the ER. Some insurance companies have estimated that an in-network urgent care visit can cost up to 80% less than an ER visit. 1

To provide a clear idea of the cost of an urgent care visit, we have outlined below how pricing works at Physicians Immediate Care.

Self-Pay Patients

For patients without insurance or those patients with high deductibles who may choose not to submit their claim, we have a flat self-pay price available at $165. We treat a variety of injuries and illnesses at a set rate. Every visit includes an examination, medical history, vital signs, and take-home instructions.

Additional Costs

Complex procedures, such as broken bones, dislocations, or extensive lacerations, may result in additional charges. There are additional charges for vaccines, medications, injectables, durable medical equipment (crutches, casts, splints), and outside labs.

Patients Paying with Insurance

We accept most major health insurance plans for patients with insurance and can bill the insurance companies directly. Just bring your primary insurance card, secondary insurance card (if you have one), and the policyholder’s name, date of birth, and social security number.

If you’re unsure whether your insurance benefits will cover your visit at Physicians Immediate Care, please contact your insurance company.  Most HMO plans require their members to receive a referral from their PCP before receiving services covered at an urgent care center or other specialists. Please contact the customer service number on the back of your insurance card to verify.

To see a list of the insurance plans we accept, click here .

When paying with insurance, the amount that you will be billed for is the rate that has been negotiated with your insurance plan. Insured patients will also be expected to pay their outlined urgent care co-payment immediately.

The summary of benefits from your insurance company should outline the copayment or coinsurance cost for an urgent care visit. If you aren’t sure, contact your insurance provider to get more information about how your coverage works.

Physicians Immediate Care, also known as Physicians Urgent Care, is a Midwest leader in urgent care and occupational health services with over 50 locations in three states. No appointments are required, and most clinics are open seven days a week, up to 12 hours a day, to treat non-life threatening illnesses and injuries. Our clinics are staffed by a doctor or advanced practice provider, under the supervision of a doctor, who provides quality, caring service, and effectively diagnoses and treats a variety of injuries and ailments.

• https://www.forbes.com/advisor/health-insurance/urgent-care-cost/

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How Much Is Urgent Care Without Insurance? Costs Compared

How much is urgent care without insurance? See how out-of-pocket costs for urgent care vary by location, and find out when to visit an ER instead.

July 6 2022, Published 10:02 a.m. ET

Considering how many people in the U.S. aren’t covered by a health insurance plan , it might be useful to know how much urgent care is without insurance.

According to research published in the CDC’s National Health Statistics Reports earlier this year, 31.6 million people of all ages in the U.S. — about 9.7 percent of the national population — were uninsured at the time of a 2020 study.

Urgent care clinics can offer uninsured individuals medical services at a fraction of the cost of emergency rooms , but urgent-care visits can still get expensive, depending on the location and services provided. Read on for more information.

How much is urgent care without insurance around the country?

In a blog post in April , the non-insurance healthcare company Mira reported that the average out-of-pocket cost of an urgent care visit — including a 20 to 30-minute visit with a medical provider and diagnostic tests — can range between $189 to $289. For visits involving X-rays or ultrasounds or other imaging services , Mira says the out-of-pocket can rise by 30 percent to 50 percent.

Mira also provided the average out-of-pocket cost of urgent care visits including in-host diagnostics and X-rays for clinics in various U.S. cities — with one city’s urgent care clinics costing twice as much as those of another. Here are some of those averages:

When should I visit an emergency room instead of an urgent care clinic?

A 2018 Scripps blog post explained what separates emergency rooms from urgent care clinic. “Recognizing the differences between ‘emergency’ and ‘urgent’ care can be confusing, because both terms imply there is a medical need that needs to be addressed quickly,” emergency physician Shawn Evans, MD, said. “However, there are distinct differences between hospital emergency rooms, traditional urgent care centers, [and] walk-in clinics, including the level of care that can be provided at each.”

According to Scripps, symptoms that should receive emergency-room care include:

• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Weakness/numbness on one side
• Slurred speech
• Fainting/change in mental state
• Serious burns
• Head or eye injury
• Concussion/confusion
• Broken bones and dislocated joints
• Fever with a rash
• Severe cuts that may require stitches
• Facial lacerations
• Severe cold or flu symptoms
• Vaginal bleeding with pregnancy

Urgent care clinics, on the other hand, can treat medical problems that are urgent aren’t emergencies, including fever without a rash, abdominal pain, dehydration, sprains, and small cuts that don’t need stitches, Scripps explains.

(Another option is walk-in clinics, which can treat less urgent issues, including sore throat, cough, congestion, ear pain, and eye redness.)

“Sort of my anecdote that I give people is if this is something that you feel like you could see your primary care doctor for, but it’s after hours, well, that then that’s urgent care appropriate, right?” primary-care physician Dr. Andres Afanador told WECT last month. “It probably doesn’t need to be handled at the emergency room, where they’re busy focusing on heart attacks and strokes and seizures and major trauma.”

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Does Insurance Cover Urgent Care? What You Should Know Know Before Your Visit

Team Curative

May 16, 2022

If you need to visit an urgent care center, you may be wondering "is urgent care covered by insurance?" The last thing you want on your mind is worrying about costs. But the truth is that uninsured emergency care can sometimes get quite expensive. With  uninsured ambulance rides  sometimes costing up to $20,000 per ride, it’s wise to take a few minutes to understand what you’ll pay whenever you’re in an emergency healthcare situation.

This page answers the question “Is urgent care covered by insurance?” and provides an overview of exactly how much you can expect to pay (or not pay) depending on your insurance status in particular. 

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be equipped with all of the information you need to visit an urgent care center without the added stress of going into a financially unknown situation.

In the future, be sure to work with an insurance company that makes it easy for you to understand what you’re covered for with just a few clicks. A convenient digital-first approach to managing and accessing your plan means you can get the healthcare services you need, faster, without additional concerns or stress.

What’s the Difference Between Walk-in Clinics, Urgent Care Centers, and the Emergency Room?

Before you visit an urgent care center, the first thing you want to do is make sure that it makes sense for you to visit an urgent care center. Urgent care centers are not the only way for you to receive immediate medical attention. Three options are available to you: walk-in clinics, urgent care centers, and the emergency room.

Walk-in Clinics

To visit a traditional primary care physician, you almost always need to book an appointment in advance. Depending on your location and how busy the office of your primary care physician is, you may need to wait weeks before you can see someone.

Walk-in clinics are different in that no appointment is required. You simply “walk into” the clinic and receive care right away. Depending on how busy the clinic is, you may need to wait up to a few hours, but walk-in clinics are almost always a significantly faster option over a traditional medical office.

It makes sense to visit a walk-in clinic if you have a minor medical problem that is not life threatening or overly serious, such as a persistent cough or treating a minor injury to ensure it doesn’t get infected.

If your problem is too severe, a walk-in clinic may refer you to an urgent care center. 

Walk-in clinics are also an ideal place to get a  physical examination  or a more specific type of health screening, such as one to test cholesterol levels.

Urgent Care Centers

An urgent care center has everything that a walk-in clinic has, except urgent care centers are also able to provide treatment for more serious medical problems. For example, an urgent care center can frequently provide treatment for a broken bone in the hand, wrist, ankle, or foot, whereas a walk-in clinic would not be able to do the same.

Unlike walk-in clinics, which are frequently staffed with only nurse practitioners and physician assistants, urgent care centers will frequently have at least one doctor ready to see patients during business hours. Along with better equipment, this improved level of staffing also allows urgent care centers to treat a wider range of medical problems than walk-in clinics.

When Should I Go to the Emergency Room Instead of an Urgent Care Center?

It’s possible you’re asking the question “Does insurance cover urgent care visits?” because you’re concerned about the high costs of emergency room visits, especially without health insurance coverage.

When it comes to deciding on an urgent care center or the emergency room, it’s a simple question: Is your medical problem life-threatening? 

If it is, you need to go to the emergency room, where it’s guaranteed you’ll have all necessary medical equipment and staff on standby to treat your problem.

If your problem is less severe, you may be able to go to an urgent care center and potentially save money. A  recent study  found that two-thirds of 27 million emergency room visits were “avoidable” and “not an actual emergency”.

How Much Cheaper Is Urgent Care Than the Emergency Room?

Emergency room visits can be very expensive, even if you receive minimal treatment while you’re there. The same recent study found that the average cost for an ER visit was over $2,000, even if the patient came in with an avoidable problem that was not a real emergency. 

Urgent care visits, on the other hand, are usually significantly more affordable, with the  average cost being $193 , without insurance.

Therefore, if you’re not in a life-threatening situation, it does make sense to consider going to an urgent care center over the emergency room. At the same time, if you  know  you are experiencing a serious medical problem, don’t risk it. Go straight to the emergency room. Urgent care centers will usually refer you to the emergency room if your problem is too serious, anyways.

How Much is an Urgent Care Visit Without Insurance?

How much does urgent care cost without health insurance? As covered in the section above, without health insurance, the average cost of a visit to an urgent care center is $193. 

Your fee may be higher or lower depending on where you live. For example, areas with higher costs of living will also usually have higher fees for urgent care center visits.

Keep in mind that this fee is usually just for the visit and does not always include additional services beyond the initial consultation. For example, if you need to get many different tests performed to check for certain diseases or ailments, your costs may end up being higher.

Does My Insurance Plan Cover Urgent Care Visits?

If you're wondering how urgent care works with insurance, it's important to know that the Affordable Care Act  (ACA), passed in 2010, requires compliant healthcare plans to provide coverage for emergency services, even if the hospital  isn’t in the approved medical network  (explained more in the section below). 

However, some plans differentiate between emergency services and urgent care, and have different fees for the two different types of healthcare facility. So, if you're wondering how does urgent care work with insurance, it's crucial to check the details of your plan to determine whether you're covered.

This different classification usually works to your advantage. For both the emergency room and an urgent care center, you will almost always be responsible for a copay: a flat fee you pay to access the particular healthcare service. In plans that differentiate between emergency room care and urgent care centers, such as workplace-sponsored health insurance plans, the copay for an urgent care center visit is usually substantially cheaper.

Can I Visit Any Urgent Care Center I Want to?

Technically, you can visit any urgent care center you want to. As long as you can pay for your visit, you won’t be turned away.

That being said, you may want to carefully select the urgent care center you end up visiting due to how your insurance plan works. Many types of plans will put restrictions on which urgent care centers you can go to. If you go outside of this approved network of urgent care centers, you may receive only partial coverage, or even no coverage at all like in the case of teeth whitening.

For example, one of the most popular types of insurance plan is an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization). HMOs are attractive options thanks to their low monthly premiums. However, they’re also very restrictive— for emergency but non-life-threatening medical situations, if you receive healthcare services from an urgent care center outside of the approved network, you could be on the hook for the entire bill.

When in doubt, call your insurance company and/or urgent care centers in your area to confirm that your insurance plan will provide coverage for you to receive healthcare services at that location.

Which Mistakes Should You Avoid When Going to an Urgent Care Clinic?

With a little bit of preparation, you can make sure your visit goes smoothly and you don’t encounter any unwanted surprises, financial or otherwise.

Is It Actually an Urgent Care Center?

Some urgent care centers look like urgent care centers, and they may even have the words “urgent” and “care” somewhere on their signage—but because they’re equipped as robustly as an emergency room is, they actually charge emergency room rates.

These surprise fees can be a big deal for two reasons: you may need to pay a substantially higher copay than you were expecting, and in worst-case situations, you could be on the line for a much higher portion of the bill if your insurance plan has different rules regarding emergency room visits versus urgent care visits.

Emergency room visit costs can  quickly spiral out of control  without insurance, so along with confirming an urgent care center is within your approved medical network, also be sure to confirm it bills as an urgent care center and not an emergency room.

Downplaying the Severity of Your Problem

Because urgent care center visits are often significantly less expensive than emergency room visits, it’s tempting to want to avoid the emergency room. And in cases where your life is not immediately in danger, avoiding the emergency room can be a financially pragmatic decision.

However, always be honest with yourself regarding the severity of your problem. If you need advanced medical attention, you need to go to the emergency room to ensure you receive immediate care from the right specialists who have all of the equipment they need—even if it does end up being expensive.

Getting an Appointment Just for a Prescription

If you have a good relationship with your primary care physician, you can sometimes call their office, even after hours, and describe the symptoms you’re having. If your doctor deems it appropriate, they may write you a prescription based on your description of your symptoms alone, then have you come in for a followup visit as soon as possible. 

This approach to getting a prescription can save you a visit to the urgent care center and therefore eliminate the need for the copay you’d be responsible for.

Forgetting to Confirm Coverage Beforehand

Even if you have a serious medical problem, insurance companies generally are not able to give a lot of leeway with coverage if you venture outside of the approved medical network of your insurance plan. 

Regardless of whether or not you have a serious medical problem right this instant, it may make sense to note which urgent care centers you can visit now, so that in the future, if something does happen, you can just drive to one where you know you’ll receive coverage—instead of needing to verify coverage during a difficult time.

Which Are the Types of Private and Public Insurance Plans for Urgent Care?

Like  psychiatry , almost every type of private insurance plan will provide at least some coverage for urgent care visits. Learn more about popular types of insurance plans to see which restrictions your plan might have.

Public insurance plans also usually cover urgent care visits. The two most popular types of public healthcare plans in the United States are Medicare and Medicaid.

Can I Use Medicaid at an Urgent Care Clinic?

Yes. Most urgent care clinics accept Medicaid. Like with private health insurance plans, you may be responsible for a small copay under Medicaid when you visit an urgent care center. 

Be sure to verify beforehand that Medicaid is accepted at the urgent care clinic you wish to visit.

Can I Use Medicare at an Urgent Care Clinic?

Yes. If you have met your part B deductible, Medicare will pay for the majority of your urgent care visit via a coinsurance structure: they pay 80% and you pay 20%.

As with Medicaid, be sure to verify beforehand that Medicare is accepted at the urgent care clinic you wish to visit.

Does health insurance cover urgent care? In almost all cases, the answer is yes. With private insurance, you will likely be responsible for just a copay, assuming all services (such as testing) and products (such as prescription pills) you end up needing are covered under your plan. 

Before you visit an urgent care center, check with the urgent care center and your insurance company to make sure you can receive coverage at whichever specific urgent care center you plan to visit. Some insurance plans will provide coverage only if you visit certain in-network urgent care centers, and provide partial or no coverage if you venture outside of this approved network. 

If you need medical attention immediately due to a severe medical concern, go to the emergency room. Although urgent care centers can help treat somewhat serious problems, they should not be seen as a substitute for emergency rooms, which are fully-equipped with everything that is needed for life-or-death situations.

In the future, be sure to work with an insurance company that makes it easy for you to understand what you’re covered for with just a few clicks. A convenient digital-first approach to managing and accessing your new health insurance plan means you can get the healthcare services you need, faster, without additional concerns or stress.

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How Much Does Urgent Care Cost Without Insurance?

By: Smiljanic Stasha

Last modified: Sep 29, 2022

Have you needed to go to the doctor but don’t have insurance? If so, you might have gone to urgent care. Urgent care is a type of walk-in clinic that provides treatment for illnesses and injuries that are not serious enough to require a visit to the emergency room.   

But, how much does urgent care cost without insurance ? Keep reading to find out! 

The Price Range for a Basic Urgent Care Visit  

So, how much is urgent care without insurance ? The average cost of an urgent care visit with a 20–30 minute consultation from a medical provider, and multiple diagnostic tests (flu, strep, urine test ) ranges from $189 to $299.  

These visits can be expensive, but they are often necessary for individuals experiencing unexpected or severe medical problems. Urgent care centers provide a valuable service for those in need of immediate medical attention, and the price range for these visits reflects the high level of care that patients receive. 

The Price Range for Advanced Visits 

It's important to know the costs of your visit before you go to urgent care so there are no surprises once it’s time for payment. For example, if a patient requires X-rays or ultra round scans, the prices on these services will be 30% higher than usual and may up urgent care costs without insurance to $300–$500 out-of-pocket expenses. 

Related: How Much Does CT Scan Cost Without Insurance?

What Affects the Cost of Urgent Care Visits?

Clinical expertise needed .

The cost of urgent care visits can be affected by the level of clinical expertise required. If a more experienced doctor is needed, the price may be higher. Some patients may only require an examination , but others will have their treatment determined by how sick they are and if there's anything else wrong with them besides the diagnosis. This would be considered at the level I care ($90–$160). However, other conditions might require different procedures like x-rays which add another $250–500 dollars onto your bill after each appointment. 

Related: How Much Does a Psychiatrist Cost Without Insurance?

The location of the urgent care facility can also affect the cost. For example, if the facility is in a more populated or expensive area, the cost may be higher. So, if you need urgent care with no insurance , try to find a cheap location. 

Duration of Treatment

The length of time required for treatment can also affect the cost of an urgent care visit . If a longer appointment is needed, the price will be higher.

Facility Operation and Equipment

The facility's operation and the type of equipment used can also affect the cost of urgent care visits. For example, if a facility is modern and has expensive equipment, the amount paid by the patient will be higher.

Related: How Much Does an MRI Cost Without Insurance?

Bottom Line

Urgent care can be expensive without insurance , but there are ways to reduce costs. Firstly, you may also want to consider a health savings account or flexible spending account to help pay for costs not covered by insurance . Additionally, try to find a clinic that offers a discount on cash payments.

Read more: How Much Is an Ultrasound Without Insurance?

Can I Visit An Urgent Care With No Insurance?

You can, but it won't be cheap. Urgent care centers are a great option for those who don’t have insurance or whose insurance doesn’t cover their care type. However, the cost of treatment at an urgent care center without insurance can be expensive. 

The best way to avoid high prices is to contact the center and ask about their rates. In addition, many centers offer a self-pay option, which can provide some relief from the high costs associated with having no insurance . 

How Much Does an Urgent Care Visit Cost?

It depends on the clinic, but typically an urgent care visit will cost between $50 and $200. Many clinics will charge a co-payment of $50–$100 for an urgent care visit, and the total cost for a visit (including tests, procedures, etc.) will be between $150 and $200.

 So, how much does urgent care cost without insurance ? It will cost you around $200. However, some clinics may have a higher or lower cost, so it's essential to check with the clinic before you go.

Policy Advice is a website devoted to helping everyday people make, save, and grow money. While our team is comprised of personal finance pros with various areas of expertise, nothing can replace professional financial, tax, or legal advice.

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What are my care options and their costs?

When you or a family member needs care, there may be more options than you realize. Some options may save you time — others may save you money, particularly if you get health insurance through work. So, before you spend time waiting in the emergency room (ER) or maybe end up with an unexpected bill, consider these alternatives that could save you up to $2,500. 1

Compare your care options

Primary care provider, average cost.

$170 1   for in-person visits,  $99  or less for virtual primary care visits

Hours open:

Weekday office hours, generally

Usually little wait with scheduled appointments

Your primary care provider may know your history best, they can quickly access your records and may offer in-person and  virtual care .

• Urinary tract infection

Sign in to find care

24/7 virtual visits.

Less than  $49 2

Available all day, every day

Usually no wait

Connect with a care provider by phone 3  or video for diagnosis of common medical conditions and, if needed, Rx prescriptions.

• Cold and Flu
• Sinus problems
• Yeast infections

Convenience care clinic

Nights and weekends, generally

30 minutes or less on average

Get care for common symptoms from nurse practitioners and physician assistants — without an appointment — at retail pharmacy clinics.

• Minor injuries

Urgent care center

Get walk-in care for serious illnesses and severe injuries from physicians and care teams.

• Muscle sprains or strains
• Skin infections
• Broken bones

Emergency Room

Available 24 hours a day, generally

Up to 2 hours on average

Get immediate care for life-threatening injuries or illnesses from physicians and care teams at hospital emergency departments.

• Shortness of breath
• Major burns
• Severe injuries
• Heavy bleeding

Choose network care providers to help avoid cost surprises

Freestanding emergency rooms, also called urgency centers, are facilities typically unattached or unaffiliated with a hospital. Although these facilities treat many of the same conditions as a traditional ER, they may come with higher costs because they're out of network.

Get a closer look at your care options

Watch a video presentation to get details about:

• Care options
• Costs for care
• How to choose care

• Personal Information
• Favorite Clinics

Home Health Resources Urgent Care Plan Your Urgent Care Visit: What to Expect and Benefits

Urgent Care

Plan your urgent care visit: what to expect and benefits.

Planning an urgent care visit can be a daunting task. From deciding if you should go to the emergency room or urgent care clinic, to understanding what kind of services are offered at each location – it’s important that you plan your urgent care visit in order to get the best medical treatment possible. In this blog post, we’ll discuss all aspects of planning for and visiting an urgent care clinic including: What is an Urgent Care Clinic? Preparing for Your Visit; During Your Visit; After Your Visit; and Advantages of Visiting an Urgent Care Clinic Over an Emergency Room. Read on as we explore how best to plan your urgent care visit so that you’re prepared for any situation!

Table of Contents:

Definition of an urgent care clinic, services offered at an urgent care clinic, benefits of visiting an urgent care clinic, preparing for your visit to the urgent care clinic, during your visit to the urgent care clinic, after your visit to the urgent care clinic, advantages of visiting an urgent care clinic over an emergency room, what are the most common urgent care visits, what is an example of urgent care, what is the goal of urgent care, how do i run a successful urgent care, what is an urgent care clinic.

An Urgent Care Clinic is a medical facility that provides immediate medical attention for non-life threatening illnesses and injuries. It is typically open seven days a week, with extended hours to accommodate patients who need care outside of regular office hours. The services offered at an urgent care clinic are similar to those provided by primary care physicians, but without the long wait times associated with traditional doctor’s offices or emergency rooms.

An Urgent Care Clinic is a walk-in health center that offers same day treatment for minor illnesses and injuries such as colds, flu, sprains, cuts and broken bones. They also provide routine checkups and vaccinations as well as diagnostic tests such as X-rays and lab work. Most clinics accept most major insurance plans including Medicare and Medicaid.

Urgent care clinics offer many of the same services found in traditional doctor’s offices including physical exams, immunizations, laboratory testing (such as blood work), X-rays and ultrasounds. In addition to these basic services they may also offer more specialized treatments like suturing wounds or setting fractures depending on the clinic’s capabilities. Some clinics even have pharmacies on site so you can get your prescriptions filled right away after your visit.

An urgent care clinic can provide a wide range of medical services, and is an excellent option for those with time-sensitive medical needs. With the right preparation, your visit to the urgent care clinic can be smooth and successful.

Preparing for your visit to the Urgent Care Clinic is an important step in ensuring that you receive the best care possible. Gather necessary information and documents before your appointment, such as insurance cards, medical history, and a list of medications you are currently taking. Make sure to bring any test results or imaging studies with you if applicable.

Make a list of symptoms and questions for the doctor prior to your visit so that you can make the most out of your time with them. Write down all relevant details about when symptoms began, how long they have been present, what makes them worse or better, etc., so that the doctor has all pertinent information at their disposal.

Researching your insurance coverage and costs ahead of time is also recommended, as it will help prevent unexpected expenses later on. Check with both your primary health insurer and urgent care clinic provider to find out what services are covered under each plan and whether there are any additional fees associated with certain treatments or procedures. Knowing this information beforehand will save time during the check-in process at the reception desk, which can be used more efficiently by meeting directly with the medical professional instead of waiting in line unnecessarily due to paperwork issues related to billing or insurance claims.

Preparing for your visit to the urgent care clinic is a crucial step in ensuring that you receive the best care possible. Now, let’s move on to discussing what happens during your visit.

Check In Process at the Reception Desk: Upon arrival, you will be asked to provide your insurance information and any other relevant documents. You may also need to fill out paperwork that includes personal information such as name, address, phone number, and emergency contact. The receptionist will then ask about your symptoms so they can direct you to the appropriate medical professional for treatment.

Meeting with the Medical Professional: Once you are checked in, a medical professional such as a nurse or doctor will meet with you to discuss your symptoms and health history. They may perform tests or order additional tests if needed. Depending on the severity of your condition, they may recommend further treatment or refer you to a specialist for more advanced care.

Before leaving the clinic, make sure that all instructions given by the medical staff are understood clearly and followed accordingly. These instructions could include taking medication prescribed by them or scheduling follow-up appointments if necessary. Additionally, it is important to keep track of any prescriptions filled at an urgent care clinic in case there are questions later on regarding dosage or side effects from medications taken during this visit

It is important to be prepared for your visit to the urgent care clinic, and understanding what will happen during your visit can help ensure that you get the best care possible. Now let’s look at what comes after your visit.

After your visit to the urgent care clinic, there are several steps you should take in order to ensure that your health and well-being is taken care of.

Follow Up Appointments or Tests: Depending on the diagnosis from your urgent care visit, you may need to schedule follow up appointments with a specialist or have additional tests done. It is important to keep track of any appointment times and test results so that you can stay informed about your health. If necessary, ask for copies of all documents related to your visit at the time of checkout.

Refill Prescriptions: If you were prescribed medication during your urgent care visit, make sure that it is filled as soon as possible. Most pharmacies will be able to fill prescriptions quickly and easily if they are given a copy at the time of checkout from the urgent care clinic. Additionally, some clinics offer online prescription refills which can save time when needed medications run out unexpectedly.

After leaving an urgent care clinic, it is normal for patients to have questions or concerns about their condition or treatment plan. Contacting the office with these questions can help provide clarity on what needs to be done next in terms of managing symptoms and following doctor’s orders properly. Many offices also offer after hours phone lines where nurses can answer basic medical questions without having an appointment scheduled first.

After your visit to the urgent care clinic, you should be aware of any follow up appointments or tests that may be necessary, as well as refilling prescriptions and contacting the office with questions or concerns. Now let’s look at the advantages of visiting an urgent care clinic over an emergency room.

Visiting an urgent care clinic instead of the emergency room can be a great way to save time and money. Urgent care clinics are designed for medical issues that require immediate attention, but are not life-threatening. Here are some advantages of visiting an urgent care clinic over an emergency room:

Cost Savings: The cost of visiting an urgent care clinic is typically much lower than going to the ER. Most insurance plans cover both services, however co-pays may vary depending on your plan. Additionally, many urgent care clinics offer discounts or payment plans if you don’t have insurance coverage.

Shorter Wait Times: Emergency rooms tend to be very busy and overcrowded due to their high volume of patients with serious illnesses or injuries. On the other hand, wait times at most urgent care clinics tend to be shorter because they only treat minor medical issues such as colds and flu symptoms, allergies, cuts and bruises etc., which do not require extensive treatment like those seen in ERs.

Since there are fewer patients in an urgent care setting compared to the ER, providers can spend more time getting to know each patient’s individual needs and providing personalized treatments accordingly. This also allows them more time for follow up visits if needed since they already have a good understanding of your condition from previous visits, making it easier for them to diagnose any new problems quickly without having to start from scratch every single visit.

FAQs in Relation to Plan Your Urgent Care Visit

The most common urgent care visits are related to allergies. Allergies can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe reactions that require immediate medical attention. Common allergy-related urgent care visits include respiratory issues such as asthma attacks and difficulty breathing, skin reactions like hives or rashes, and anaphylaxis which is a life-threatening allergic reaction. In addition, people may seek urgent care for other allergy-related issues such as eye irritation or sinus infections. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of allergies so you can seek treatment quickly if needed.

Urgent care is a type of medical service that provides immediate, walk-in treatment for minor illnesses and injuries. It can include diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as colds, flu, ear infections, sprains or strains, cuts or burns. Urgent care centers are often open after regular doctor’s office hours and on weekends to provide quick access to medical attention without the need for an appointment. They also offer services such as X-rays and lab tests in order to diagnose any underlying issues quickly so that appropriate treatments can be prescribed if necessary.

The goal of urgent care is to provide timely medical treatment for illnesses and injuries that require immediate attention but are not serious enough to warrant a visit to the emergency room. Urgent care centers strive to offer quality healthcare services in an efficient, cost-effective manner. They can diagnose and treat common ailments such as colds, flu, minor cuts or burns, sprains and strains, ear infections, urinary tract infections, allergies and asthma attacks. In addition to providing diagnosis and treatment for these conditions they also provide preventive health services such as immunizations.

Running a successful urgent care requires careful planning and organization. First, it is important to have an experienced staff that can provide quality medical care in a timely manner. Second, having the right equipment and supplies on hand is essential for providing effective treatments. Third, developing relationships with local hospitals and specialists will help ensure referrals when needed. Finally, staying up-to-date on new technologies and treatments will help keep your practice competitive in the market. With these steps in place, you can create an efficient system that provides excellent patient care while keeping costs low.

By planning your visit ahead of time, you can ensure that you get the best possible care in a timely manner. Knowing what to expect during and after your visit will help make it easier for you to plan your urgent care visit and receive quality medical attention quickly.

If you are experiencing any side effects or symptoms from allergies, don’t wait to get help. Plan your visit to NextCare Urgent Care for fast and effective relief. Our experienced medical team is available seven days a week with extended hours so that you can be seen quickly when unexpected health issues arise. Don’t let allergies keep you down – come see us today!

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How much does an echocardiogram cost?

$500 – $3,000+ average cost without insurance, $150 – $2,000+ average cost with insurance.

Average echocardiogram cost

An echocardiogram costs $500 to $3,000+ without insurance, depending on the location and type. With insurance, the out-of-pocket cost of an echocardiogram is $150 to $2,000+ , depending on the plan details, such as deductibles, co-pays, and maximums. A transesophageal echo or TEE test costs more than a standard transthoracic echocardiogram.

What is an echocardiogram, and what does it show?

An echocardiogram, often referred to as a heart echo or heart ultrasound, is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to produce images of the heart. This test helps doctors evaluate the heart's structure and function.

A heart echo shows the size and shape of the heart's four chambers and the functioning of the heart valves. It is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as heart valve disease, heart failure, and congenital heart defects.

An ECG is not the same test as an echocardiogram. "ECG" and the commonly used "EKG" both refer to an electrocardiogram.

Heart echo price by type

There are several types of echocardiograms, each with different purposes and costs:

A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) costs $500 to $3,000+ without insurance. This is the most common type of echocardiogram. It involves placing a transducer—similar to what a sonographer uses for a fetal ultrasound—on the chest to capture heart images.

A transesophageal echocardiogram or TEE test costs $700 to $4,000+ without insurance coverage. This echo test is more invasive and involves inserting a specialized probe into the esophagus to get detailed images of the heart.

A stress echocardiogram or "stress echo" costs $600 to $4,000+ and is typically conducted before and after physical stress, such as walking on a treadmill in the facility for a specified time. Like its name implies, this test assesses how the heart functions under stress.

A Doppler echocardiogram test measures the speed and direction of blood flow through the heart. It is often included in other echocardiogram types but can add $200 to $500 to the total cost.

Heart ultrasound factors

Besides the specific type of test, several factors influence the cost of a heart echo test:

Location: Prices vary by region and facility. Urban hospitals may charge more than rural clinics. Technician and cardiologist availability may also impact the cost.

Facility type: Hospitals often charge more than outpatient clinics or imaging centers.

Technological Equipment: Facilities with advanced equipment may charge higher fees.

Specialist Fees: Costs can increase by $200 to $300 if a cardiologist has to interpret the results.

Insurance coverage: The test cost with insurance varies significantly depending on the specific plan, co-pays, and deductibles. Most patients pay 10% to 50% of the total cost. Many facilities offer a reduced "cash price" rate for self-paying individuals.

Always confirm your coverage and options before making your echo appointment. In some cases, your total cost may be cheaper when going to an out-of-network imaging facility and opting for self-pay instead of going through your insurance. However, the price you pay won't be applied to any deductibles.

Additional tests

Depending on the reason for the echocardiogram, your doctor may order other tests to make a firm diagnosis. The following table shows the average cost for several common diagnostic medical tests.

Echocardiogram FAQs

How should i prepare for an echocardiogram.

Generally, a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) requires no special preparation. For a transesophageal echocardiogram, your doctor may instruct you to fast for a certain number of hours before the test as they have to insert the transducer through the esophagus to take the pictures.

Is an echocardiogram the same as an EKG?

No, an echocardiogram is not the same as an EKG (electrocardiogram). An EKG—also called an ECG—measures the electrical activity of the heart and helps doctors identify heart rhythm problems. In contrast, an echocardiogram provides a visual image of the heart's structure and function.

An EKG costs $100 to $350 without insurance at a doctor's office or urgent care facility, or up to $5,000 at a hospital.

How long does an echocardiogram take?

A standard echocardiogram typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete. The duration may vary based on the type of echocardiogram and the specific details needed by your healthcare provider.

How long does it take to get echocardiogram results?

The time it takes to receive echocardiogram results can vary. In some cases, results are available immediately after the test if a cardiologist is present. Otherwise, it may take a few days to interpret the results and report back to you.

Does Medicare cover echocardiograms?

Yes, Medicare covers echocardiograms when deemed medically necessary. However, coverage may vary based on the specific circumstances, the type of echocardiogram performed, and the type of Medicare. Check with Medicare or your healthcare provider to understand the details of your coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

Tips for lowering the cost of an echocardiogram

Here are some tips to help reduce the cost of an echocardiogram:

Talk to your doctor: In some cases, a doctor may be able to determine the issue with a brief echocardiogram that provides fewer views and measurements than a standard echocardiogram. This modification may reduce the test time and overall cost.

Check your insurance coverage: Verify what your insurance covers and understand your out-of-pocket expenses.

Shop around: Compare prices at different facilities. Independent imaging centers may offer lower costs than hospitals.

Ask about discounts: Some facilities offer discounts for self-paying patients or payment plans to spread out the cost.

Negotiate: Many facilities will work with patients who have high-cost medical bills that they cannot afford to pay. Don't be afraid to ask.

Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.

On Your Side Podcast: The hidden costs of car ownership

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) -- Buying a car, even a used one, can be one of the biggest purchases a consumer can make. But even if you do get a good deal, there are a number of hidden costs that come along with owning that vehicle. On this episode, we’re talking to Shannon Martin of Bankrate. She breaks down some of the hidden costs and tells us exactly how much it costs each year just to drive a car.

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What your pets eat may keep them out of the animal hospital : Sixty-eight percent of American households own a pet, and many of them are of course dogs and cats. But owning a pet comes with added expenses. Vaccinations, healthcare and unexpected visits to the vet all add up quickly. And one of the number one reasons owners have to take their pets for an emergency vet visit has to do with eating something they’re not supposed to eat. Today, Dr. Ricky Walther joins us on the On Your Side podcast. He’s a veterinarian and Chief Medical Officer for Pawlicy Advisor. He tells us what you should and shouldn’t feed your pets and other little secrets to keep them out of the emergency room.

Spotting Fake Online Reviews : When it comes to finding a good restaurant, a caring doctor or maybe even a talented contractor, consumers have learned to rely on Internet reviews. But how legitimate are those reviews and more importantly, can you really trust what they all say? The answer is “no” because many of the reviews we read are “fake,” put on the Internet to reel in new customers. Today, Kay Dean joins us on the On Your Side podcast. She’s a former federal criminal investigator who currently has a YouTube channel called Fake Review Watch. She tells us how to spot fake reviews and what to do if you come across one.

Avoiding the Most Common Adoption Scams : For all parents, the path to parenthood is unique, and for many families, it includes adoption. It can be an emotional process. And now scammers are preying on people who desperately want a child. Today, Nicole Witt joins us on the On Your Side podcast. She is the executive director of the adoption consultancy – and the host of ‘adopting! The podcast’ helping families who want to adopt with education, information, and guidance. She’ll reveal several common scams, like the phantom birth mother scam. What you need to know to protect your family.

Getting a hold of student loan debt using the new SAVE program : Student loan payments have been on hold for years. But they’re back beginning in October. At the same time, millions of borrowers are enrolling in a new income-driven student loan repayment plan called “SAVE” which is reducing monthly student loan bills. It may feel complicated, so today Robert Farringdon joins us on the On Your Side podcast. He’s the founder of ‘The College Investor’ and calls himself “America’s millennial money expert.” The company’s mission is to help people get a grip on student loan debt using SAVE and to begin building wealth at the same time. He’s helping us navigate the new SAVE program, how it works, and who qualifies. We’ll also talk about life after student loans.

Earning Artificial Intelligence Certificates Will Help Job Seekers : Like it or not, Artificial Intelligence is here to stay. We have self-driving cars, smart assistants, manufacturing robots and countless other examples of machines acting like humans. Artificial intelligence is already available in hundreds of different industries and it’s only a matter of time before the number starts to increase. So, don’t get left behind in the world of AI. Colleges are starting to introduce AI classes to prep students for the next generation. On this episode, Juanita Sorrano from edX is on the On Your Side podcast. edX is an online platform founded by Harvard and MIT to help students immerge themselves into learning artificial intelligence and to earn certificates which always looks good when looking for a job.

Getting the maximum return for your remodeling investment : The real estate market across the nation, including here in Phoenix, has really slowed down due to higher interest rates and low inventory. So, if you’re even thinking of trying to sell your home, what can you do to get it SOLD? Well, you want to set your home apart from your competition and that includes updating your house. Olivia Mariani from Curbio joins us on the On Your Side podcast. She tells us about a new method of updating your home and how to get the most return for your investment.

Be prepared for unforeseen layoffs : This has not been a good year for American workers, as more than a quarter million people were shown the door after getting laid-off. The tech industry was hurt the most with big companies like Facebook and Zoom laying off thousands. Unfortunately, many of those affected didn’t see it coming and were financially unprepared. Today, we’re talking to Stewart Willis. He’s a financial expert with Asset Preservation Wealth and Tax, and he explains how you can be financially prepared in case the unexpected happens.

How ticket bots are impacting air travel : Have you ever heard of an airline offering super cheap airfare, but once you try to but those tickets, they are all gone? There’s a reason they get gobbled up so fast, and it’s not because some consumers are quicker to react. On this episode, we’re talking to Jesper Essendrop, the CEO of Queue-It. He reveals the results of his investigation into how bots are making things more difficult for travelers.

More weddings this year despite increasing costs : It’s estimated that a little over 2 million weddings will take place here in the United States by the end of the year. That’s significantly higher than the past three years. And while more weddings are taking place, the price tag for the big day has sky rocketed. In fact, a whopping $29,000 is the national average cost for a wedding. Ann Kaplan joins us on this On Your Side podcast. She’s a finance and wedding expert and she explains the reasons behind the increase in wedding costs and what couples can do to bring the price down.

Kids and cleaning : When you send your kid off to college, are they ready to clean? Do they know how often to clean, or how to wash their bedding? According to a new survey, a lot of parents aren’t so sure, and neither are their college-bound kids. On this episode, we’re talking to Brian Sansoni, a cleaning expert and the Senior Vice President of Communications, Outreach, and Membership at the American Cleaning Institute. We discuss the basics to make sure everyone is mastering essential cleaning habits.

Too many real estate agents hurting the industry : If you’re on the house hunt, you know the real estate market is competitive. Turns out, it’s competitive for real estate agents, too. A new report by the Consumer Federation of America shows there are too many real estate agents for too few home sales. And it is coming at a cost to consumers. On the On Your Side podcast, we are chatting with Steven Brobeck, the author of the report. He’s the senior fellow at the non-profit consumer research and advocacy group and tells us why too many real estate agents are hurting the industry.

Creating an AI-friendly resume : Are you looking for a job and you feel like you’re not getting a lot of interest from potential employers? Well, it may be that your resume isn’t AI friendly. Artificial Intelligence is weeding out job candidates based on certain words that may or may not be in your resume. But don’t worry, you can turn that resume around. Today, we’re talking to Jeremy Schiff. He’s the CEO of RecruitBot which is a hiring platform that matches employers with job candidates. He explains what you can do to keep your resume from being rejected by AI.

Summer Vacation Tips : Summer is officially here. And by now, you may have some bored kids out of school for summer vacation. So on this episode, we’re chatting with one of our favorite money-saving moms. Her name is Andrea Woroch and she tells us how to help salvage summer fun without breaking the bank, whether you’re home or away on vacation.

1% down payment mortgages : It’s hard to keep up with the real estate market these days. One month, it seems housing prices are falling. The next month prices are creeping up. A lot of it has to do with interest rates that the fed has increased 10 straight times in a little over a year. Another factor is where you live. So, some lenders have come up with something called the 1-percent mortgage. Today, we’re talking to Jeff Ostrowski. He’s with Bankrate.com for more than two decades and he’s a real estate expert. He says 1-percent mortgages are a clever way lenders are getting potential homebuyers into the market. But there are pros and cons you need to know about.

Inside Google Trends : How often are you Googling for answers? On this episode, we’re talking with Bailey Tomson, a Google Trends expert. We’ll go behind the scenes of some of the most recent trends that have millions searching like how much to tip and what we’re dreaming about.

New graduates should be aware of fake job offers : Graduation is here, not only for college students but high school students as well. But looking for job opportunities after leaving school can be ripe with scams. Fake job postings, phony offers, and high pay are all techniques that scammers use to lure unsuspecting job seekers down a road to financial loss and big disappointment. So, today Kevin Roundy joins us on the On Your Side podcast. He’s a tech expert with Norton-LifeLock and specializes in computer security, privacy, and identity protection. He tells us all the tricks scammers use to attract job seekers and more importantly, he tells us how not to become a victim.

Getting the best customer service : Is AI killing customer service? On this episode, we’re talking with Micah Solomon, a customer service expert and author of several books including “Ignore Your Customers (and They’ll Go Away)” and “Your Customer is the Star.” We’ll discuss what companies are doing wrong with customer service, what they’re doing right, and what customers can do to get the very best service.

Consider travel insurance even for short trips : Summer is coming up and chances are you might be taking a vacation somewhere. Maybe you booked a cruise, bought airline tickets, or plan on driving to a theme park like Disney World. If so, did you purchase travel insurance? Some consumers buy travel insurance when it comes to big ticket vacations like flying overseas, or booking a cruise. It gives them a little peace of mind just in case something comes up at the last minute and they can’t go. But travel insurance isn’t just for pricey vacations anymore. Today, Meghan Walch joins us on the On Your Side podcast. She’s with InsureMyTrip which sells travel insurance. She says policies are becoming more affordable for travelers who want a “safety net” just in case their travel plans don’t work out.

Are you saving enough for retirement? : No matter where you’re at in your career, you’ve probably dreamed of retirement at least once or twice. But a growing number of workers and retirees are worried about retirement. This year’s new retirement confidence survey shows 64 percent of workers are confident they’ll have enough money to live comfortably throughout their retirement years. That’s down from 73 percent just last year. In this episode, we are talking with Craig Copeland. He is the Director of Wealth Benefits Research at the Employee Benefit Research Institute. We’ll ask him what’s driving this drop in confidence. And what’s to come as Americans try to work toward a comfortable life after the office.

A new way to book babysitters on demand : On this episode, we’re talking with Natalie Mayslich. She is the president of care.com . She says there’s a new way to book babysitters on demand, and she’ll lay out what we should actually plan to pay for a sitter.

Arizona is a perfect state for wineries and grape growing : Kris Pothier joins the show to discuss the exploding Arizona wine industry.

The most costly and least expensive states to own a vehicle : What states are some of the cheapest places to own a car, what states are the most expensive and where does Arizona fit into the mix? For the answer, we’re talking to David Straughan. He’s with Automoblog which is an automotive publication that keeps readers informed and up-to-date on driving. And the research they just released reveals just where your money is going when it comes to driving.

Where the Phoenix real estate market is heading : We’ve been on a wild ride in real estate. From an extreme seller’s market to high interest rates that slowed down sales. Spring is traditionally when we see a lot of homes go on the market. But is that the case this year? And what can sellers expect when they put that for sale sign in the ground? Today Tina Tamboer joins us on the On Your Side podcast. She is a senior housing analyst with the Cromford report which tracks the greater Phoenix residential real estate market.

Broken appliance? Tips to fix it yourself for free : Appliances sure do make our lives easier, and when they break down, a repair bill can be pricey. So, what little things can you do now to extend the life of appliances? That’s what we’re talking about on the On Your Side podcast with Ben Schlitchter.

Most college financial aid information is misleading : This month, college acceptance letters will be going out to high school seniors who applied. But be careful. That’s because a recent government report indicates nearly 90 percent of colleges have misleading information when it comes to financial aid offers in those letters. Sarah Boeder joins us on the On Your Side podcast. She’s with Grand Canyon University and breaks down fact from fiction regarding financial aid.

Unpaid Medical Debt and Your Credit Report : Unpaid medical bills are the number one reason consumers are forced into filing bankruptcy. But there’s some good news. Third-party collection agencies are being more lenient when it comes posting negativity to your credit report. That’s what we’re talking about on the On Your Side podcast. John McNamara is from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in Washington D. C. and has a ton of information on medical bill debt and your credit.

Sitting down with Arizona consumers’ top cop : You may not know it, but the Federal Trade Commission has declared this week National Consumer Protection Week. So, now is the perfect time to speak with Kris Mayes, who was recently voted in as the Arizona Attorney General. Her office is responsible for defending the state against lawsuits and issuing legal advice to state agencies. However, another important role of the Arizona Attorney General is prosecuting consumer fraudsters and protecting Arizonans who have been defrauded by scammers. Mayes joins us on the On Your Side Podcast.

“Farcation” is Happening Right Now : We all know how the pandemic put a damper on many people’s vacation plans, as flying anywhere seemed to come to a drastic halt. But, fast-forward a few years and you can see how things have changed. Flying somewhere, usually to far away places, is back in high demand and has sparked what he calls “Farcation.” Today, we’re talking to Chris Elliott, he’s a travel expert who has written numerous articles in well-known publications. He tells us where people are going and what you can expect for spring break and summer vacations.

Avoiding “Junk” Fees : Junk fees, they seem to be everywhere. They’re on bank accounts, credit cards, auto sales. They’re sometimes referred to as “convenience fees,” but they’re anything but convenient. And while junk fees are hitting consumers hard, companies that are charging the fees are making tons of money. In fact, a recent report revealed that consumers shell out 30 billion dollars a year just in junk fees alone. So, what can be done about these “junk fees” and is there any way to stop them? Today, we’re talking to Carla Sanchez-Adams. She’s an attorney with the National Consumer Law Center which is trying to end “junk fees” in order to leave more money in your pocket.

The “Do Me A Favor Scam” : Have you received an email recently from a friend or maybe even your boss asking for a small favor? Well, it may not really be your friend or boss after all. Scammers are posing as people you may know and they’re asking for a little help. And of course, how can you refuse your boss or a good friend when they turn to you for support? But be careful. Today, we’re talking to Ken Colburn. He’s been in the computer industry for decades and a specialist in technology and computer scams. He explains how the “Do Me A Favor Scam” works and how you can avoid getting conned.

Betting on the Super Bowl in Arizona : The Valley is getting ready to host one of the biggest sporting events in the world, Super Bowl LVII where we’ll see the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Kansas City Chiefs. It also means a lot of money will be exchanged when it comes to wagering and in Arizona, sports betting is completely legal. So, what can Arizona expect when it comes to fans who will be betting on the Big Game which is right in our backyard? For answers, we’re talking to Max Hartgraves, with the Arizona Department of Gaming, and he breaks down all the numbers when it comes to betting on the Super Bowl.

Super Bowl Party Food Costs : The Big Game will be here before you know it. That means you’re probably be going to a Super Bowl party or maybe even hosting one. Either way, whether you’re providing all the food at your own party or taking a dish it’s going to be a lot more expensive this year. Beer is up big time but surprisingly, chicken wings are actually down in price. So, what kind of food and beverages will be a big hit without hurting your bank account? Today, we’re talking to Fidela Irigoyen. She’s an agriculture expert with Wells Fargo and she has all the inside information for your Super Bowl menu.

Influential podcasters headed to Arizona for the Super Bowl : In this episode, On Your Side is taking its podcast on the road to Scottsdale for a peek behind the scenes where famous and maybe the not so famous will record their podcasts. Celebrities, influencers, and other big names are already here for The Barret Jackson Auction. Of course, the Phoenix Open and Super Bowl will bring thousands of more people into town, many of whom will need a space to record their podcasts while in town since they can’t bring their podcast studio with them. So, what do they do? For the answer, we’re talking to Brian Howie, the founder and owner of Podpopuli. It’s a Scottsdale recording studio that will be open 24/7 Super Bowl week where well-known podcasters have already booked to record their show from the Valley of the Sun.

Lowering Home Insurance Premiums : If you own a home, your homeowner’s insurance might have increased. If not, it’s likely that it will. What’s behind the increase and exactly what can you do to keep your premiums from going up further? For the answer, we’re talking to Dustin Lemick. He has years of experience in the insurance industry and he’s currently the CEO of a jewelry insurance company called BriteCo. He tells us all we need to know to get more bang for the buck when it comes to insurance.

Getting certified helps you stand out in job searches : Looking to change jobs or maybe careers this year? You can make yourself a more attractive candidate by getting a certification, with or without a college degree. For more on that, we’re talking to Dr. Quentin McAndrew On Your Side. She’s an academic strategist with Coursera a learning platform that helps job seekers earn online college degrees and certificates which always looks good on a resume.

Money Moves to Make in 2023 : On this episode, Stewart Willis from Asset Preservation Wealth & Tax to discuss some things that can be done right now to maximize next year’s dividends. We’ll talk about balancing your portfolio, how to plan for taxes, and how to maximize your retirement savings.

Tips for Holiday Driving : With so many people flying again after the pandemic, airports are congested, flights are being canceled and the pilot shortage isn’t helping. This means many folks are choosing to drive somewhere for the holidays and even long distances in order to avoid flying. Don’t start that holiday vacation until you check your vehicle first, however. In today’s On Your Side episode, we’re talking to Emilie Voss from Carfax. She tells us about some of the most overlooked maintenance issues that are easy to prevent if you just take a few minutes to check them out.

Avoid getting scammed during your online holiday shopping : Have you started your holiday shopping yet? If you have, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that 60% of Americans start shopping before December. Much of that shopping will be done online, giving scammers the perfect opportunity to steal your money. If you think it will never happen to you, think again. Today, we’re talking to Kevin Roundy. He’s a researcher with the cybersecurity company Norton and told us all the online scams to be on the look out for as well as little tricks you can use to protect yourself while shopping online.

Behind the Scenes of the Thanksgiving Butterball Hotline : We’re counting down the days to Thanksgiving. It’s when family and friends will gather for one of the biggest meals of the year. It’s a meal so important that novice chefs often turn to the experts for help to cook their turkey. On the On Your Side podcast, we spoke with Butterball talk-line expert Sam Woulfe. She take us behind the scenes the Butterball Hotline. Who’s calling in? What are some of the most common questions? What are some of the most outrageous ones? How do you actually cook a perfect turkey?

Inflation not affecting artificial Christmas trees and holiday décor this year : The cost of just about everything is up due to sky-high inflation. There’s one thing that’s proving to be almost inflation-proof this holiday season. Turns out, holiday décor is already being deeply discounted. Our guest on this episode is Chris Butler, CEO of National Tree, one of the largest artificial tree and holiday décor companies in the nation. He’s walking us through what retailers are experiencing with excess inventory and how increasing storage costs are benefiting consumers this season.

New federal guidelines to make household items safer for children : It’s estimated one child dies every month due strangulation from window blind cords. There are also child fatalities involving furniture tipping over. New rules passed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission will hopefully make things safer for kids. One of these rules requires window and blind manufacturers to start selling blinds that don’t have long, hanging cords. In this episode, we’re talking to Nancy Cowles with Kids In Danger. She talks about these new guidelines and the impact they will have on parents and consumers.

Savvy tricks to saving money : Everything these days is much higher than just a year ago. Rent, food, and even entertainment seem so unaffordable, but there are some clever ways to cut back on small expenses that will make a big impact on your budget. Today on the On Your Side Podcast we’re talking to Andrea Woroch. She’s a nationally recognized money-saving expert who divulges cool tips you most likely never thought of before.

Buying a Pre-Owned Electric Vehicle : Ever since gas prices started to spike, electric vehicles have been a hot topic. Until now, most of the discussion has centered on buying new electric vehicles. So, what about used EVs? Pre-owned electric vehicles can save you a significant amount of money, and it may be a good idea. Keep in mind though, buying used EVs can come with risks that can cost you. On this episode, we’re joined by Scott Painter, founder and owner of Autonomy, a company that allows users to subscribe to electric vehicles. He’ll tell you what to look for when buying a used EV to avoid any pitfalls.

Employers struggling to hire and retain employees : Are you looking for a job or maybe thinking of changing careers? You’re not alone. The U.S. just added more than 260,000 jobs last month. The Labor Department says average hourly earnings rose 5% from a year ago. The labor market might look optimistic, but why are companies struggling to keep employees? What are different industries doing to keep their staffing where they need to be? Today, we’re talking to Doug Hall with SK Food Group, a national company that prepares and ships sandwiches and wraps. He tell us the ups and downs his industry has gone through hire and retain employees.

Inflation’s impact on pet care : Inflation has caused the prices of just about everything we buy to go up drastically. We know about groceries and gas, but what about pet care? Pet owners already pay around $3,500 per year on pet care, but that amount seems to be going up as well. On this episode, we’re talking to Doug Patriquin, co-owner of Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit. He tells us how you can keep your pet budget under control.

How to Boost Your Credit Score : Have you checked your credit score lately? It’s something we should all keep an eye on, especially before applying for a credit card or loan. If your credit score is 740 or above, you’re considered to have a pretty good score, meaning creditors should reward you with a lower interest rate. So, in this episode, we’re talking to Brian Larsen. He’s with WaFd Bank’s Retail Division. He tells us the average credit score in America right now is 716, which is actually an all-time high. He has some tips and suggestions to get you over that 740 mark.

The cost of enjoying sports : Baseball season is wrapping up, and football season is underway. So, we are talking about sports spending. From kids’ leagues, to tickets, merchandise, food and fantasy leagues, fans plan to spend hundreds of dollars this fall. And a new survey shows some are willing to take on debt for their favorite sport. So today we’re talking with LendingTree’s Matt Schulz who breaks down how much we’ll actually spend and how to better budget for the sports we can’t live without.

Scammers stealing homes and down payments : Imagine being in the process of buying or selling a home. It can be an exciting time, but it can also be stressful. Scammers know that, and they’re using a very deceptive practice to either steal your down payment, make off with your sale proceeds or in some cases...steal your home right out from underneath you. Sounds crazy, but it’s happening across the nation, including here in Arizona. So, today we’re talking to Samuel Doncaster. He’s the lead attorney for a law firm called Fraud Fighters. He knows exactly how these scams work and he’ll give us all the information you need to keep from losing what might be your life savings.

Christmas Shopping and the Supply Chain : It’s that time of year when folks start looking forward to Halloween, Thanksgiving, and of course, Christmas. Shopping for that perfect gift may be the furthest thing from your mind right now, but in today’s world, it should be at the top of your list. Apparently, retailers are facing some big inventory challenges and looking to move product. This could mean big savings for consumers. Today we’re talking to Adam Davis, the managing director for Wells Fargo Retail Finance. What he has to say will probably change the way you do your holiday shopping.

Why are so many college students leaving college? No health insurance : A recent study found that 30% of Arizona students are not returning to college this year because of the coronavirus. In fact, more than 150,000 students cancelled all college classes in Arizona alone. One reason behind the major departure is that many college students just don’t have health insurance to cover medical expenses, particularly COVID-related expenses. Since many colleges require some kind of health insurance to enroll, students are forced leave school. So, what do you if you want to further your education and just can’t afford medical insurance? Today, we’re talking to Nick Vinzant. He’s the senior analyst with www.QuoteWizard.com which is the largest privately held insurance comparison company. He says there are several options for young and older college students to get insurance without having to leave school.

Are electric vehicles right for you? : More drivers are interested in owning electric vehicles. For many families, EVs are still way too expensive. But there is a new push to get more EVs on the road. Now, because of the Inflation Reduction Act, tax credits for EVs have completely changed. So how do they work? Who qualifies? Who doesn’t? Are the credits enough? Today, we’re covering it all with Jim Stack, the President of The Electric Auto Association in Phoenix.

Higher interest rates leading to spike in online loan scams : Higher prices are affecting just about everything we buy, including housing and transportation. The Feds recently raised interest rates to slow down borrowing which will hopefully bring down prices for consumers. That makes the perfect opportunity for scammers to take advantage of you. So today, we’re talking to Zulfikar Ramzan. He’s the chief scientist at Aura, an online security company that helps prevent consumers from being scammed online. He tells us his company has seen a dramatic uptick in loan and interest rate scams tied to inflation. He’ll also tell us how the scams work and what you need to look out for to prevent getting ripped off.

Inside a scammer’s “Bible” to ripping off victims : Would you like to get into the mind of a scammer? You can. A Nigerian conman has flipped sides and is sharing many of his untold secrets with David McClellan of Social Catfish, a website dedicated at preventing romance scams. The scammer exposes all the do’s and don’ts of using the “Romance Scam” in order to dupe lonely women. All the details are in a manual referred to as a “Scammer’s Bible” which explains how to rip off victims. McClellan tells On Your Side how exactly what’s in the manual so victims know what to look out for. Click here for more info

The reason spam texts are increasing : Robocalls are becoming less of a threat to consumers, and the dreaded rings from unknown numbers are dropping. But according to a new report, the number of robot texts flooding phones is skyrocketing. So, today, we’re talking with Teresa Murray. She is a consumer watchdog for Arizona Public Interest Research Group Education Fund, and she helps On Your Side break down recent laws which crack down on robocallers and now text scams. We also talk about how to protect yourself from scammers who hide behind phone calls and text messages.

Overcoming Travel Frustrations : The pandemic crushed the airline industry and prevented many travelers from flying. But it seems that has all changed. A new report indicates a lot more people are flying and even driving to destinations. However, travelers say they are frustrated with airlines, with 80% of passengers saying they’ve had a recent negative experience. On this episode we’re talking to Tim Rossman, an industry analyst with Bankrate.Com . His new report reveals some stunning numbers when it comes to how many people are traveling these days and what effect it’s having if you’re trying to get somewhere.

Consumers and Small Claims Court : Have you ever been ripped off by someone and were so mad you wanted to take them to small claims court? It happens all the time, and many people decide not to go through with it because they don’t know how the process works. Going through the court process is actually easier than you’d think. That’s why we’re talking to the Honorable Gerald Williams who serves as justice of the peace for one of Maricopa County’s precincts. He’ll break down all the do’s and don’ts of filing a small case lawsuit and offer helpful tips to get your case heard.

Fourth of July Food Prices : The United States will be turning 246 years old on July 4th. To celebrate, many of you out there will probably have some kind of get-together that will no doubt involve food. Food prices on this 4th of July are up 11%, and depending on what you plan on cooking for the holiday will really affect your wallet. So today, we’re talking to Karol Flynn. She’s the Food and Agribusiness Industry Advisor for Wells Fargo. She tells us what 4th of July food items you might want to avoid due to their sharp increase in price and what other items you might want to consider that won’t break the bank for your holiday party. Spoiler alert: Shrimp is cheap!

Credit Card Crunch : A new report says nearly 75% of Americans have needed credit card debt advice. However, half of them never sought out that advice and because of that, many consumers have found themselves digging deeper and deeper into debt. Today, we’re talking to Jim Triggs of Money Management International. It’s a non-profit organization that helps consumers navigate through the tough financial world by empowering and helping people to stabilize their money matters .

Overstock Issues : Supply chain problems have been persistent, but now retailers have a new problem of having too much...of the wrong stuff. On this episode, we are talking with Leslie Bush, a marketing professor at Arizona State University. She breaks down what’s behind the change in consumer behavior and what it means for your next shopping trip.

How much money you need to retire : A million dollars sounds like a lot of money, and it is! But these days, is it enough money for you to retire? Years ago, a million dollars to save for retirement was always a goal for many but not anymore. Experts say to live comfortably, you have to raise the bar and put more money away. So, we’re talking to Stewart Willis. He’s a financial expert with Asset Preservation Tax and Retirement. He tells us how much we need to retire, how much we should have in our retirement accounts right now depending on age and other financial tips to keep you fiscally sound.

The (still) red hot real estate market : The real estate market is still red hot, but mortgage interest rates are going up. On this episode, we’re talking with Trevor Halpern, a Phoenix-based real estate agent, about what’s happening in the market, if there is a slowdown in home sales on the horizon, and how much competition buyers will face in the coming months.

Budgeting for a wedding : May through October is the most popular time of the year to get married and people are spending big bucks to tie the knot. A recent report indicates that couples spent $28,000 on average on their wedding last year. This year, it will be even more expensive. So, today we’re talking to Stephanie Gilmore, regional banking district senior manager with Wells Fargo. She has some great ideas and tips to keep your wedding costs down so you don’t start off in debt.

Computer Chip Shortage : Arizona is poised to become the semiconductor capital of the West and possibly the United States. The Copper State currently has 200 semiconductors companies and more are being built. On the 3 On Your Side podcast, we’re talking to Tracey Latham. She currently is the U.S. Small Businesswoman of the Year for Arizona and owns a company that relies heavily on semiconductors. She explains why is Arizona being chosen and what it will mean for the state’s economy and labor force.

Full-time Retirement? Maybe Not : Many folks look forward to retirement. When that time comes and they leave their job, they find themselves, well...kind of bored. But some people, as well as companies, have found a solution that benefits both the company and the retiree. It’s called “phased retirement.” On this episode of the 3 On Your Side podcast, we talk with Zanzibar Vermiglio of Zanzibar Enterprises about why human resource directors like the idea of phased retirement. We’ll also discuss why many retirees are deciding to “unretire.”

College Scams : It’s that time of year when college acceptance letters are starting to pour in for parents and their children. It sounds exciting, and scammers know that. With all the hype, it’s the perfect time for conmen to take advantage and try to dupe potential victims when they least expect it. So, we’re talking to Beau Friedlander. He’s an award-winning publisher who’s been writing about cybercrimes and scams for 10 years. He tells us what to look out for when it comes to enrolling students into college, because the scammers will target you over the Internet, through the mail, and even over the phone. MORE INFO: https://link.chtbl.com/CCUnCylF?sid=3onyourside

Cashing in on collectibles : From coins to toys and trading cards, most collectors think their collections will pay off. Ismat Mangla from Magnify Money joins us to break down who is collecting what, how much they’ve spent along the way, and whether the collections ever pay off.

The best (and worst) frequent flyer programs : It looks like people are flying more these days, and that’s raising airfare. In March, airfare went up more than 5%, marking the third largest jump in 20 years. To bring the cost of airfare down, many travelers rely on frequent flyer programs but some are better than others. On this episode, we’re talking to Jill Gonzalez with WalletHub, who evaluated frequent flyer programs for each airline. She’ll break down all the flyer programs to let you know how you can get the most out of each one. MORE INFO HERE .a

Paying off your student loans : Forty-six million Americans are in debt due to student loans, with those debts totaling more than $1.8 trillion. That works out to the average borrower owing more than $35,000. How do you even start a down payment on something like that? On this episode, we’re talking to Andrew Pentis with Student Loan Hero and Lending Tree. He’ll break down which states have the biggest loans, which universities carry the most student debt, and more importantly, how to pay off your loans.

Surprise charges; kids & credit : Have you ever spotted a surprise charge on your credit or debit card? Is your kid to blame? A new LendingTree survey reveals almost half of parents say they’ve caught their children secretly spending. Others knowingly allow their children to borrow their cards and regret it. In this episode, we’re talking with Matt Schultz, the chief credit analyst at LendingTree about how to teach children about credit.

Jet Fuel Prices : We’re all well aware of the spike in gas prices and how it’s affecting your wallet. But what does it mean for airfare? Just like cars, airlines need fuel for their planes. So, how is the Russian-Ukraine war affecting what you pay for airfare. For the answer, we’re talking to Scott Keyes of Scott’s Cheap Airfare . He’s an airline analyst and he’ll tell us what to expect regarding your upcoming vacations and how oil prices could play a major factor in what you pay for airline tickets.

Car Buying Tips : The chip shortage for new cars is still ongoing. So, how long will it last, and how is it affecting consumers as well as car dealers? Today, we’re talking to Karl Brauer. He’s an auto analyst with Iseecars.com and has also worked for Kelly Blue Book, Auto Trader, and Edmunds. Due to the chip shortage, he’ll tell us what new cars are hottest on the market, what used cars are persuading consumers to buy in this time of uncertainty, and what used cars last the longest.

Pain at the Pump : The cost of gas is going up. Today Patrick De Haan, the head of petroleum analysis for Gas Buddy, is joining us. He has the reasons behind what’s driving gas prices and talks about if we can expect any relief on the horizon, particularly since Russia’s recent invasion of Ukraine? De Hann says get ready--$4.55 a gallon is very possible for Arizonans. Head to gasbuddy.com to find the cheapest gas near you.

Maximizing Your 401(k) : Many companies offer their employees a 401(k) plan to help prepare for their retirement years. However, many workers choose not to enroll, and they are leaving money on the table. A lot of money. On this episode, we’re talking to Ted Schmelzle, a retirement expert from Securian Financial who tells us why it’s throwing away money if you don’t contribute. Plus, he gives tips to grow your money faster.

Salary Negotiations : People are leaving their current jobs in numbers we haven’t seen before. It’s referred to as the “Great Resignation.” But when you’re offered a new job, how do you bring up the topic of salary without being awkward? And how do you comfortably ask for a dollar amount that works for you? Today, we’re talking to Andres Lares. He runs a company called Shapiro Negotiations Institute, a firm that has represents everyday workers and even NBA teams. He explains how to ask for the proper salary or even a raise at your current job.

Love and money : Valentine’s Day is here and “Love is in the Air.” Or is it? A recent report by Personal Capital reveals 57% of U.S. adults ay the pandemic has increased financial stress in their relationship. Today, on the 3 On Your Side podcast, we’re talking to Krista Aliga, a financial advisor with Personal Capital. She explains why money is causing some people to fall out of love and what steps you can take to get make things right.

Saving on Super Bowl food : The big game is almost here, so it’s time to plan for your big Super Bowl spread. But your game day meals and snacks are going to cost you a lot more this year. So today, we’re talking to Karol Flynn with Wells Fargo. She’ll help show you the best buys when it comes to Super Bowl food, plus some great tips to save the next time you head to the store.

Elevating your resume : Looking for a job? Then you’ll need a great resume to stand out from the other candidates. On this episode, we’re talking to Jeff Hyman, author and CEO of Recruit Rockstars. He has great tips to spice up your resume and land the job you want.

Maximizing your credit card perks : How many credit cards do you have? Whatever the number, your cards may have perks you don’t even know about. About 30 percent of Americans who have rewards cards have made no effort to take advantage of their points or perks that they may have. On this episode, we’re talking with Doug Milnes, Chief Financial Analyst with MoneyGeek.com . He has some surprising information when it comes to you and your credit cards.

Tax filing season is here : It’s almost tax time, and if you’re like millions of Americans, you’re expecting a refund. In this episode, Gary Harper and Susan Campbell talk with Mark Steber, the Chief Tax Information Officer at Jackson Hewitt, about new deductions, changes this tax season, and potential IRS delays.

2022′s economic outlook : When it comes to the economy, what can we expect in 2022? Inflation is increasing at a pace we haven’t seen in 40 years, consumer prices are higher, and interest rates are inching up. On this episode, we talk with Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst for BankRate.com . He outlines what he see in 2022′s economy, whether we will see it blossom, or if it will cost us more money.

Gym Memberships : We find ourselves in a new year as 2022 is officially here, and one popular New Year’s resolution is to get into better shape. But is joining a gym the right decision? And if you do join, what should you know when it comes to contracts and how much you pay? Today, we’re talking to Jim Bathurst. He’s a fitness trainer from Nerdfitness and he’s in the business of getting people into shape and losing weight. He’ll break down the do’s and don’ts of joining a gym and what you need to look out for.

Holiday gift returns : The hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping is in full swing and a lot of purchases will be made online. But what do you do if someone gives you an online gift and you need to return it? It may be difficult or impossible. Today, we’re talking to Jill Emanuel. She’s a certified financial coach with Fiscal Fitness. She’s been helping consumers to save money and navigate through complicated topics for years. She has all the do’s and don’ts of returning holiday purchases successfully.

Dangerous toys : Holiday shopping is in full swing, and for kids, toys are at the top of the list. But be careful because some of those toys could be dangerous. Today on the 3 On Your Side podcast, Gary and Susan talk with Hannah Rhodes. She’s a Consumer Watchdog associate with the Arizona PIRG Education Fund. From counterfeit toys to smart toys and toys that are too noisy, she is breaking down exactly what to look out for to keep your family safe this holiday.

Is insurance bundling the way to go? : One expense many consumer have, but don’t pay attention to, is insurance. Home, auto, renter, and more, there’s insurance for just about everything. Does it really save? And how much can you save if you bundle? On this episode, we’re talking to Mark Fitzpatrick from Money Geek. They have dozens of experts who analyze all kinds of statistics and crunch the latest numbers. They found bundling could save you a bunch of money.

Setting and achieving your 2022 financial goals : We’re coming up on the end of the year soon and that means 2021 will officially be in the history books. Looking back, how do you think you did financially? Did you start a retirement fund or savings account? If you have a 401(k), did you increase how much you contribute and are you satisfied financially? 3 On Your Side’s Gary Harper talks to Leslie Tayne. She’s an author of a bestselling book regarding finances. She’s also an attorney who specializes in consumer and debt resolution. She talks about what financial goals you should have in mind to make 2022 one of your best years ever.

Hanging Christmas lights safely : Christmas is almost here, and that means trees and lights! But that combination can be dangerous if you display your lights the wrong way. To keep you safe, we’re talking to John DeCosmo, an expert who knows all about fixing broken lights and hanging them safely.

Choosing a bottle of wine for your holiday party : The holidays are quickly approaching, which means a lot of you might be going to a holiday party. And wine is one of the more popular items that party-goers bring. But what kind of wine? How much should you spend? And what’s a good brand to take with you? In this 3 On Your Side Podcast, we’re talking with Keith Beavers. He’s a self-described “wine geek” who’s been in the wine retail industry in New York for more than a decade. He talks Wine 101 and give us some down to earth tips for choosing a bottle of wine that will make a statement without breaking the bank.

Gift Cards : Americans are sitting on billions of dollars in unused gift cards, so are they really a good gift to give? On this episode, we’re talking with Ted Rossman, a senior industry analyst at CreditCards.com , about spending those unused gift cards. He also has some ideas about what to do with gift cards to stores or restaurants you’ll never visit.

An $859 Billion Holiday Season : The holiday season is almost here and consumers are expected to spend, spend, spend. The National Retail Federation is predicting holiday sales during November and December could balloon to $859 billion. On this episode, we talk with Katherine Cullen, the senior director of industry and consumer insights at NRF, about supply chain challenges, tracking down the perfect gift, and why so many Americans are shopping early.

Supply chain issues & when relief may come : Ongoing supply chain issues seem to have almost paralyzed consumer goods across the country. From canned goods, to computer chips to auto parts, you name it, and they all seem to be hard to come by. But what’s causing the kink in the supply chain and when will we see relief? On this episode, we talk to Bill Thayer. He’s an expert in logistics, retail, and e-commerce, and he’s also CEO of Fillogic, a company that specializes in transporting goods from Point A to Point B. He has some interesting insight about what’s going on with America’s supply chain and when it may end.

Getting the best car insurance for you : When it comes to saving money, your car insurance premiums should be at the top of your list. Yet, nearly half of consumers have failed to comparison shop to see if they can get a better deal. That’s what we’re talking about on the 3 On Your Side podcast. We talk to Mark Fitzpatrick with MoneyGeek.com who will show you how to shop for car insurance and get the best rate.

Car Rental Tips : The cost of renting a car has sky-rocketed over the last year and a half. In fact, in Hawaii, travelers were shelling out $4,000 a week just to rent a car once they flew in for their vacation. On this episode, Gary Harper is talking to Willis Orlando, an analyst with a travel website called Scott’s Cheap Flights which investigates travel costs like renting a car. He’ll explain why car rentals have become so ridiculously high and when rental rates will come down.

Avoiding holiday financial hangover : Nearly half of Americans carry some kind of credit card debt, with an average balance of $6,200. Unfortunately for many consumers, that amount will increase come the holidays. So in this episode, Gary is talking to Kelsa Dickey, a certified financial coach who’s been helping to dig people out of debt for years. She’s going to tell us what we can to starting today in order to avoid a financial hangover after the holidays.

Beware of flooded cars for sale : Thank goodness Hurricane Ida is behind us, but she left a path of destruction. In fact, Ida left $95 billion worth of damage in Louisiana and surrounding states and much of that destruction was caused to cars. Unfortunately, many of those water damaged vehicles will be cleaned up and sold to unsuspecting consumers around the nation. Today we’re talking to Patrick Olsen from Carfax. Carfax has access to around 20 billion records for vehicles, and they collect the information from around 100,000 different sources to determine if a car has been in an accident, if the odometer has been rolled back, or in this case, if the car you’re thinking of buying has been waterlogged from a hurricane.

Sextortion Alert : It is a form of internet bribery that has victimized countless people. The elements are intriguing. They involve romance, photos, lies, and eventually money. A lot of money. Gary Harper is talking to Nate Warfield a former internet hacker who eventually used his skills to help people and companies to protect themselves while online. Warfield is here to tell us about something called “sextortion” and what you need to do to protect yourself against it.

FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance : Nearly 600,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. It’s terrible news, and many loved ones paid out of pocket for those funerals. But why? Particularly when the federal government has set aside money to pay for those services. On this episode, Gary Harper is talking to Ed Michael Reggie, CEO of Future Factory and a known consumer advocate and expert in the funeral industry. He explains details of the program and says many people just don’t know about it and what is needed to qualify.

The Supermarket Guru : In this episode, Gary Harper is talking about something that affects nearly everyone across the nation and that’s rising food prices. To break things down, Gary talks to Phil Lempert who’s known as the “Supermarket Guru.” Lempert is an author, speaker and one of the leading experts in the nation when it comes to following food trends.

Skyrocketing Rent : Rent is increasing, not only in Phoenix, but all across the nation. On this episode, Gary Harper is joined by Jeff Andrews with Zumper, an apartment rental website that monitors rental trends. Andrews says national rent went up 12% since this time last year, and there’s no indication of going down. Andrews explores the reasons behind the jump. Gary is then joined by 3 On Your Side producer Warren Trent to discuss home rental scams they’ve covered and tips for consumers to avoid from being ripped off.

Great Resignation : In this edition of the 3 On Your Side Podcast, Consumer Investigator Gary Harper talks about something that’s being referred to as the “Great Resignation.” Apparently, more people are leaving their jobs now than ever before. But what is driving the mad exodus of leaving careers and starting a new one?

A Raging “Scamdemic” : For this edition of the 3 On Your Side Podcast, Gary Harper talks to Jack Caporal, an analyst and writer with The Ascent and The Motley Fool research team who has gathered statistics regarding COVID-19 fraud cases. Arizona consumers have been swindled out of nearly $10 million with an average loss of $325. Caporal uses a term “Scamdemic” while referring to the COVID-19 scams. Since the beginning of the pandemic, American’s have filed over a half-million COVID-19 fraud reports totaling over $480 million according the Federal Trade Commission. Arizona ranks No. 13 in the U.S. when it comes to COVID-19 fraud cases, California tops all states with COVID-19 fraud losses totaling more $65 million.

Protecting Your Privacy : Gary Harper and Susan Campbell offer tips to consumers help them protect their privacy in only a matter of seconds. Lending their expertise on privacy is Thomas Germain, a technology writer at Consumer Reports. This 3 On Your Side episode wraps up with Gary and Susan offering tips for consumers to help avoid falling victim to a common trick crooks use to steal your money, The Overpayment Scam.

Don’t get boxed in with your move : When it comes to moving, it is among the most complained about industry’s 3 On Your Side get emails about. To help expose the pitfalls, Gary Harper and Susan Campbell talk to Ryan Charles, from a company called Hire a Helper who sheds light to help consumers from getting ripped off during their move. Gary and Susan wrap up this podcast segment talking about the pitfalls of buying sight unseen vehicles online.

Used car prices going through the roof : If you’re thinking about buying a new vehicle, you might want to pump the brakes. Used car prices are through the roof with new cars often getting full sticker prices on the lot. Emilie Voss is from Carfax and talks to Gary Harper and Susan Campbell about the rising used car prices and what consumers need to know so they don’t get taken for a ride. This 3 On Your Side Podcast ends with Susan and Gary answering questions they frequently get from consumers about balance billing complaints.

Beware of Contracting Scams : This is the season where monsoons can bring damaging winds and rains for countless citizens. Summer is also a time when scammers often show up after a storm offering repair deals that are too good to be true. Jeff Wills, is Chief of Investigations at the Arizona Registrar of Contractors who talked to Susan Campbell and Gary Harper about the Red Flags consumers need to be mindful of as scammers show up unannounced after a storm looking to separate you from your hard earned money. This episode wraps up with Susan and Gary discussing complaints 3 On Your Side often receives about different types of payment scams. For example, viewers tell us they may get a phone call from someone who they believe is their utility company, threatening to shut off their utility if they don’t pay a certain amount of money immediately. It’s a common scam consumer frequently fall victim to.

Deals Take Flight : As summer travel takes flight, 3 On Your Side’s Gary Harper and Susan Campbell talk to Scott Keyes, founder of Scott’s Cheap Flights. Keyes offers tips for consumers to help them find post-pandemic travel deals. The episode concludes with Gary and Susan answering viewer questions about Renters Rights. Information consumers need to keep in mind when it comes to landlord tenant disputes.

Navigating the Hot Housing Market : Susan Campbell and Gary Harper take you on a house hunt with Phoenix, Arizona based real-estate agent Trevor Halpern from Halpern Residential. Halpern helps buyers and sellers navigate the ultra-competitive housing market. 3 On Your Side frequently receives numerous emails from disappointed consumers about things not covered by their Car or Home Warranty. The episode concludes with Susan and Gary offering tips consumers should keep in mind before agreeing to pay thousands of dollars for a Car and/or Home Warranty.

Saving $1,000 on Any Salary : If you have a desire to learn how to save $1,000 on any salary, Gary Harper and Susan Campbell have the answer. On this edition of the 3 On Your Side Podcast, they talk to Deacon Hayes, a financial expert and founder of Well Kept Wallet, a financial education company that strives to enlighten consumers across the globe through a personal finance curriculum. This episode concludes with Gary and Susan answering viewer emails about their decisions to help the environment by adding Solar panels to their homes. While there are consumers pleased with going solar, there are things consumers need to keep in mind when deciding if they should buy or lease solar panels. For example, leasing solar panels can last up to 25 years, with escalating monthly payments.

Copyright 2024 KTVK/KPHO. All rights reserved.

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