"There is nothing quite like it in Aroostook County," said Dave Peterson, TAMC President & CEO. "It's not quite like the doctor's office, and it's different than the Emergency Department. It's something completely new in our region."
Walk-In Care clinics have grown in popularity over the last decade in Maine and across the nation because they offer quick, affordable care on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-In Care is appropriate when a minor illness or injury needs to be treated by a health care provider right away, but the regular family doctor isn't available. It's also a good choice for people who do not have a primary care provider.
"We've seen people use our Emergency Department for minor medical concerns for years, and Walk-In Care is now a better option for them," said Dr. Jay Reynolds, TAMC Chief Operating Officer and Chief Medical Officer. "It's fast, convenient, and easy, and no appointment is necessary. The spaces are warm, open, and inviting. I think folks are really going to like it here."
Walk-In Care is open during the week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Weekend hours will be added in the coming months.
Out of pocket costs depend on insurance and the nature of the services provided, but Walk-In Care costs will be comparable to a primary care office visit for most people. But Walk-In Care is not intended to replace the family doctor. Primary care providers (PCP) are the best choice for ongoing, routine medical care because a PCP knows more about a patient's medical history and can monitor health problems on a regular basis. Walk-In Care customers who do not have a primary care provider can be connected with a provider at North Street at the end of their Walk-In Care visit.
Walk-In Care is not appropriate for emergency care. "While we hope our community will use Walk-In Care instead of the Emergency Department for minor concerns whenever possible, real medical emergencies should always be treated in the ED," explained Reynolds. "Anyone experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, broken bones, alcohol or drug overdose, or any other kind of medical emergency should call 911 or visit the closest emergency room."
Hospital officials believe North Street Healthcare, which also includes adult primary care, pediatrics, dialysis, nephrology, patient billing, and physical therapy services, is the right location for the Walk-In Care service. According to Glenda Dwyer, TAMC Vice President of Physician Services, customers will enjoy the central location and easy parking. A laboratory service is located on-site, so most customers will not need to go to the hospital to get their blood drawn.
"Customers do not need an appointment for Walk-In Care or the laboratory service," she said. "Lab services are also available for anyone who needs lab work - not just Walk-In Care customers. We'll be able to handle lab draws very quickly and efficiently and get you back home or to work."
As word gets out about Walk-In Care, Peterson expects that the Emergency Department will see fewer visits from people needing care for minor illnesses and injuries.
"We have an opportunity to not only provide more convenient care to people who have minor medical concerns, but also to improve our Emergency Department," added Peterson. "ED staff will be able to focus on what they do best, which is treating heart attacks, strokes, broken bones, and other emergencies."
For more information go to http://www.tamc.org/walk-in-care.aspx.