Over the past decade, urgent care facilities have emerged as popular, convenient and cost-effective alternatives to primary care physicians and hospital emergency rooms. The number of urgent care facilities in the United States has grown exponentially and now represents an $18 billion segment of the healthcare industry, with additional growth expected, according to the Urgent Care Association.

In the past two columns, we’ve examined the importance and value of avoiding or preventing claim denials so we don’t have to deal with resolving them, especially with the specter of litigation hovering over us. As Dalton, the protagonist in the cinematic classic Road House, once said, “Nobody ever wins a fight.” It is far better to resolve disputes amicably and fairly than to engage in conflict in a courtroom.

Understanding insurance can be tricky, so it's crucial to have a working understanding of your coverage and what you need. This can make a major difference in the price you will pay, as allow you to understand how your choice of insurance will protect your lifestyle, assets, and personal property.