Flu Season Is Coming. Do Your Clients Know Where to Go?

Oct. 14, 2026

Applies to Individual & Family Markets

Seasonal illnesses can happen fast. Knowing where to go for care before you need it can help your clients save time and money, understand their options, and feel more prepared.

As flu season approaches, encourage your clients to stay on top of their health with routine checkups and preventive care. Their primary care provider can be a good place to start for annual exams, vaccines, and other preventive services.

Urgent care is ideal for times when their doctor is not available.

And when someone isn’t feeling well? The right care option depends on their symptoms and how severe they are. Depending on their needs and benefits, options may include:

• Primary Care Provider or Medical Groups: A good first stop for preventive care, minor illnesses and managing ongoing conditions.
• Virtual Care: A convenient option for many non-emergency illnesses or injuries. Availability and coverage depend on the member’s plan.
• Urgent Care: Consider for same-day, non-emergency needs when a PCP isn’t available, such as urinary tract infection (UTIs), minor fractures, cuts, fevers or infections.
• Emergency Rooms: Save for severe or life-threatening emergencies, such as chest pain, trouble breathing, stroke-like symptoms or severe bleeding.

Make it a seasonal touchpoint. A quick reminder can help clients prepare before they need care. Share our Choosing the Right in-Network Options resource to help them understand their care options, potential costs and when to use each one.