How do I get started? The best way to get started as a Kaiser Permanente member is to choose your primary care physician and schedule an appointment with him or her, so you can get to know each other and you can become familiar with Kaiser Permanente's facilities and services now. That way, if you are injured or become ill in the future, you won't have to deal with the added stress of an unfamiliar physician, facility, and process; you'll know exactly what to do. Can I change physicians? Yes, you may change your primary care physician any time you feel the need. We want you and your doctor to build a strong and lasting health care partnership; that can happen only with a physician you like and trust. Changing physicians can be as easy as making a phone call. Check your benefits information packet for details. Do I need to go through my primary care physician for everything? No, not for everything. Women may self-refer for mammograms in some areas, for example, and may also choose an obstetrician/gynecologist in addition to their own or their family's primary care doctor. You may make appointments with some other specialists, such as optometrists and ophthalmologists for eye exams and treatment or our mental health professionals, without being referred by your primary care doctor first. And registration for health education classes and activities never requires a physician referral. What if I have an emergency? Your care is covered in case of a true emergency - an accident or illness that could result in death or the loss of a limb if not treated immediately. In the event of an emergency, you should call 911 or seek help at the nearest hospital. Arrange to have your primary care doctor notified within 24 hours, so she or he can arrange any follow-up care you might need. Some examples of emergencies are: heart attack/severe chest pain loss of consciousness severe shortness of breath uncontrollable bleeding poisoning major bone fracture symptoms of possible stroke: numb limbs, slurred speech, lack of responsiveness What is the role of the advice nurse or advice line? The "advice" phone line allows you to discuss a problem or issue with a health professional, who can give you suggestions or help you decide if what you really need is an appointment with your physician. If you catch a cold or flu and want relief but don't feel like making a trip to see your physician, or if you come into contact with poison ivy, the advice line can help. Medical advice via telephone is available 24 hours per day, seven days per week. What if I get sick or have an accident while I'm away from home? If you need care while in any of the 17 states that have Kaiser Permanente facilities, as a member you are entitled to seek care at those facilities, just as you would at home. Simply look in the phone book under "Kaiser Permanente" to see if there is a facility nearby. If there is no Kaiser Permanente facility where you are, you may seek help from any hospital or urgent care facility. You will need to pay the bill for your care, however, and file a claim form for reimbursement upon your return. Kaiser Permanente members are also covered for any necessary emergency health services when traveling abroad. Even standard emergency room copayments are waived when you require emergency care outside the United States. How important is my membership card? Very. The information contained on your card identifies you and important information about your group benefits. You will need to present your card each time you use Kaiser Permanente's health care services, so take good care of it and keep it handy. If you lose your card, you can obtain another by calling the Member Services number listed in your benefits information packet.