If you are not feeling well, you have the option to go to the doctor, an urgent care clinic, the hospital, or a walk-in clinic. If you are not having an emergency, a walk-in clinic would be a good option for you. Below is more information about this so you can start feeling better.
Treat Common Illnesses and Minor Injuries
If you have a common illness or a minor injury, going to the hospital is not a good idea. You not only will have to wait a long time, but this will cost you a lot of money. Instead of this, go to a walk-in clinic, as they can handle illnesses and injuries like this. For example, this type of clinic can treat things like cuts, sprains, infections, minor fractures, and minor burns. The doctors at this clinic can also treat common illnesses, such as flu, cold, upper respiratory infection, and more.
Depending on the walk-in clinic you choose, they may also have X-ray machines, and be able to do lab tests. This will help them make a better diagnosis, so they know how to help you.
Offer Flexible Options
Walk-in clinics were designed because people oftentimes need to see a doctor when their regular doctor's office is closed. They also may not be able to get into their regular doctor quickly to get treatment they need. A walk-in clinic can treat you quickly and most clinics are open on weekends, as well as during the evening hours. This way you can see a doctor at night, so you will not have to miss any work.
In most cases you will not have to wait long to see a doctor at a walk-in clinic. This is because they do not treat a wide range of medical problems. In an emergency room you may wait a few hours to see a doctor, especially if your illness or injury is not life threatening.
Save You Money
Walk-in clinics generally charge much less when compared to ER or urgent care clinics. If you have insurance with a co-pay, most walk-in clinics will require your co-pay only. If you have no insurance, the price at this clinic will be much less expensive when compared to other options. For example, with insurance you may pay up to $150 for the ER visit. With no insurance, you could pay $3,000 or more, depending on what is wrong with you.
The clinic may also not do as many tests if you do not have insurance if they can treat you well without them.
Talk with a walk-in clinic in your area, like West Ocean City Injury & Illness Center, if you have more questions on how they work.