Is a elevated red blood cell count in itself something to be concerned with? thank you

Yes and no: If it is a minor and all CBC is normal then it is ok. If the MCV is low, it could be thalassemia trait. If it is associated with high hemoglobin, it can be abnormal (erythrocytosis or polycythemia). Get checked

Not a risk: A high red count with normal hemoglobin and hematocrit (two other tests that check red cells) may be harmless, but should be repeated with a full blood count plus red cell volume.