Just a few years ago there were basically two choices for medical care. You could try to get in to see your doctor, or visit the emergency room. Today most communities include at least one Immediate Care facility that offers a third option. The clinics have evolved in recent years, to the point where many people use them for most of their medical needs.
Some of the benefits offered by urgent care facilities include:
- SPEED: It is almost impossible to predict how long a doctor visit will take, even when you have an appointment. Most private practices schedule patients at regular intervals, but complicated cases and interruptions can result in long waits. Urgent care clinics are well organized and designed to allow patients to register and be seen within a very short time.
- SAVINGS: A visit to an emergency room can be very expensive, even if you have insurance. Most Immediate Care facilities charge far less. In addition, the majority of clinics accept several insurance types, including workmen’s compensation and Medicare.
- EMERGENCY HELP: Patients can rely on urgent care clinics for emergency treatment of sprains, burns, lacerations, abscesses, bladder infections, and more. The facilities include equipment and resources that allow their staff to quickly and accurately diagnose and treat problems. Many include on-site pharmacies.
- WELLNESS SERVICES: Clients can use clinics for routine wellness care as well as emergencies. Staff doctors, nurses and assistants provide immunizations, as well as school and work physicals. They also help patients with colds, coughs, rashes, and other minor problems that are bothersome but not considered emergencies.
- CONVENIENCE: Emergency clinics are usually located in various areas of each community, making it unnecessary for patients to travel too far to get help. Many are open every day, and offer extended hours. They are designed to make it easy for patients to be seen before and after work or school.
Today many patients use walk-in emergency clinics instead of emergency rooms. Some use them as alternatives to doctor visits. The facilities are popular because they accept many insurance types, charge reasonable fees, and offer fast, convenient service.
