Haley has another ear infection. Austin may have dislocated his finger playing soccer. You have a summer cold that just won’t quit. And, as if all that wasn’t enough, the dog just ate your panty hose and is looking sick. Do you call your family doctor and hope he can squeeze you in? Do you take a trip to the emergency room and pray you’ll get out before September?
Actually, there’s probably another option in your neighborhood. In the past few years, hundreds of independent medical clinics have opened inside drugstores, supermarkets, and even places like Walmart. They’re conveniently located, open 7 days, require no appointment, and take health insurance or have very affordable rates. They seem to offer everything except drive-thru service and a happy meal. So, are they too good to be true? Here’s the scoop.
Welcome the trend. No matter what your political beliefs, you can’t deny that our health-care system is overburdened. In most cases, these clinics are a smart way to shift simple services, like treating minor infections or injuries, away from family doctors and hospitals so they can focus on more serious cases.
Realize you may not see an MD. Although doctors staff some clinics, most are run by certified nurse practitioners. These are registered nurses with extra training in the diagnosis and treatment of common medical problems. Most have years of experience working in hospitals, doctors’ offices, and ERs. No matter who’s staffing the clinic, they’re still regulated by federal, state, and local laws.
Don’t make it a one-stop shop. These clinics are best for colds, flu, ear infections, strep throat, immunizations, school physicals, and routine blood tests. Most aren’t equipped to set broken bones, take X-rays, stitch cuts, or handle medical emergencies like heart attacks. Stick with your family doctor for annual checkups, ongoing care, and any chronic problems.
Consider it your safety net. If you’re temporarily without health insurance, the rates at many of these clinics are affordable enough to get you through. For instance, Walmart clinics charge about $45 for a Get Well visit—treatments for about 30 to 40 minor ailments fall under that category. A similar doctor’s office visit will cost you $80 to $110. And at an ER, it can run up to $200. Some clinics also provide health screenings for cholesterol or certain cancers that many people might otherwise skip because of cost or appointment hassles.
If in doubt, check it out. The next time you’re near a clinic, stop in. See if you like the atmosphere. Ask to speak with the medical person in charge to gauge the level of professionalism. For another opinion, ask a store clerk or two. They see people come and go all day and have probably used the clinic themselves.
Unfortunately, though, these clinics don’t treat pets. So (for now) you’ll still need to take Old Rex to the vet—and keep him away from panty hose.
Decadent (yet smart!) desserts
