Should you take your child to a nearby “walk-in” clinic for what you think is a minor medical problem?
A Wall Street Journal article reported that The American Academy of Pediatrics has expressed concerns about retail health clinics.
“Retail health clinics that are popping up in drugstores and other outlets shouldn’t be used for children’s primary-care needs, the American Academy of Pediatrics said, arguing that such facilities don’t provide the continuity of care that pediatricians do.”
“While retail clinics may be more convenient and less costly, the AAP said they are detrimental to the concept of a “medical home,” where patients have a personal physician who knows them well and coordinates all their care.”
“The AAP statement, which updates a 2006 policy, said seemingly simple complaints may have serious underlying causes. Pediatricians also use routine visits to monitor and discuss other issues, such as mental health and obesity.”
“The AAP said it supports partnerships where clinics refer patients back to their pediatricians and share all pertinent information …”
Click here to read the full WSJ article, “Pediatrics Group Balks at Rise of Retail Health Clinics” by Melinda Beck and Timothy W. Martin.
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Doctor, Did You Wash Your Hands? ™ provides information to consumers on understanding, managing and navigating health care options.
Jonathan M. Metsch, Dr.P.H., is Clinical Professor, Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; and Adjunct Professor, Baruch College ( C.U.N.Y.), Rutgers School of Public Health, and Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration.
This blog shares general information about understanding and navigating the health care system. For specific medical advice about your own problems, issues and options talk to your personal physician.