No family can predict when a health emergency will occur, but having a plan in place will help you to react more quickly when the need does arise. Step one is knowing where to go for treatment.

Edinburg Family Emergency Center, located within Edinburg Children's Hospital, offers quality care close to home. The center provides emergency care for all your family members -- not just children.

Be prepared
Before an emergency strikes, make sure you know the quickest route to the center. Also, keep the emergency services phone numbers, such as 911, in a handy location in case you or another family member needs to call the paramedics or ambulance transportation.

What to expect
When you or your family member arrives at the center, a nurse will assess the medical condition and determine its urgency.

"Physicians treat the sickest patients first," says Martha Sustaita, RN, director of the Edinburg Family Emergency Center. "Patients are seen according to the seriousness of their conditions and their chief complaints."

But be assured, the highly skilled staff at the center is here to help you and your family.

Remember, in the event of a medical emergency, please dial 911.

Bring these with you
If possible, bring the following items when you come to the Edinburg Family Emergency Center:

• Name, identification card
• Proof of health insurance, if you have it (medical care will be provided even if you don't have insurance)
• A list of your physicians and their telephone numbers
• Your medical history and any allergies you may have
• A list of your medications
• Kids, Med or Senior Advantage card; these programs provide many opportunities for members to manage their health and wellness by providing them with information and benefits.

Becoming a Kids Advantage member is easy and it's free. Sign up today at www.southtexashealthsystem.com or call 1-800-879-1033.

c/o Marketing Department 1400 W. Trenton Rd. Edinburg, Texas 78539