How to Choose the Right Walk-in Clinic for You

Did you know that approximately 85% of people in the United States visited the doctor last year?

If you find yourself with a sinus infection, sore throat, or ankle sprain, where should you go for medical treatment? It may take weeks to get an appointment with your primary care doctor, and the emergency room costs a pretty penny.

In this situation, your best bet is to find a walk-in clinic. These doctor offices treat illnesses, small injuries, and don’t require an appointment. Keep reading to learn all about choosing a walk-in clinic!

How to Choose the Right Walk-in Clinic for You

• Location

Are you searching for a “walk-in clinic near me?” When choosing a walk-in clinic, the location should be an important part of your decision.

You will be going to the walk-in clinic when you don’t feel well. You won’t want to drive far to visit the doctor.

If you can, try to find a walk-in clinic that is close to your pharmacy. This will make picking up a prescription after your appointment much easier.

• Hours

Another factor to consider when choosing a walk-in clinic is the hours. When is the clinic open? Are they a 24-hour walk-in clinic?

Finding a walk-in clinic with hours that work with your schedule is important. If you work until 7pm, you don’t want to choose a clinic that closes at 6pm. If you do, you may never have time to visit.

• Services

Before you head to the walk-in clinic, make sure they offer the services you need. There is nothing worse than feeling sick and driving to the doctor just to be referred to a different doctor’s office. That will waste your time and money.

Most walk-in clinics offer services such as X-rays, diagnostic testing, and treating minor injuries. You can even find special clinics, like a pediatric walk-in clinic or an orthopedic walk-in clinic. If you are unsure, it never hurts to call the clinic before you go.

• Insurance

Does the walk-in clinic take your insurance? If not, that is a deal-breaker. When you visit the doctor, you want to take advantage of your insurance and not get stuck with a hefty bill.

Some walk-in clinics will list the insurance they accept online. If you can’t find the information online, give them a call before you go. You also should ask about the deductible and compare it with other walk-in clinics.

• Appointments

Walk-in clinics are convenient because you don’t have to make appointments, but some clinics offer appointments to reduce your wait time.

If you know you are going to visit after getting off work, making an appointment allows you to see the doctor right away instead of waiting in a long line.

If you want to get in and out quickly, look for a clinic that offers appointments, like MEDNOW Urgent Care.

Are You Ready to Choose a Walk-in Clinic?

Walk-in clinics are convenient, allow you to take care of simple illnesses, and are more affordable than other types of treatment. If you are looking for a walk-in clinic, be sure to consider its location, hours, services, insurance acceptance, and appointments.

Did you enjoy reading this article on walk-in clinics? If so, check out the health category for more information!