Question

Retail Health Clinics (RHC) are a new method of outpatient care delivery, CVS offers such a program in it's Minute Clinics. Comment on the following in the forum. Respond to 3 classmate posts for maximum points.

1. What do you think about this approach to treating minor illnesses?

2. Have you been to a RHC, if no, do you think you might try one in the future, if yes, why did you go?

3.What type of health professional is providing treatment in these locations?

4. What are the benefits of this type of healthcare location?

5. How does this impact the business side of healthcare?

Answer 1

Retail Health Clinics(RHC) are part of broader category called Convenient Care Clinics(CCC) located in retail stores such as supermarkets and departmental stores.

1.What do you think about this approach in treating minor illnesses?

• I think this is a very good approach, considering these minor illnesses do not need to be treated by a specialized doctor. Usually an OTC medication with a professional advice would be sufficient and helpful.
• Also, people with chronic illnesses like HTN,DM,etc. Just don't need to go to the hospital often as they can visit these RHC's and get their necessary health check-up related to their condition and get the medication required,they can be referred to a specialist if needed.

2.Have you been to RHC, if no, do you think you might try one in the future, if yes, why did you go?

• No, i have never been to an RHC, i would definitely try one in the future.

3.What type of health professional is providing treatment in these locations?

• RHC's are generally staffed by Nurses, Nursing practitioners and Physician's assistants.
• Some of these will be staffed by Doctors.

4.What are the benefits of this type of healthcare locations?

• convenient hours: RHC'S have extended hours and these will be convenient for people to access after their working hours and are quick in providing the service.
• Cost effective: ​​​​​​ People without insurance prefer RHC because it is usually cheaper
• convenient locations: Health services are provided in a simple and convenient way in your nearest locations.So, there is no need to specifically fixing an appointment and visit a hospital for very minor issues.

5.How does this impact the business side of healthcare?

• There has been a moderate impact on the long standing healthcare system due to RHC'S

The Primary Areas are:  

• Transparent Pricing
• Faster Care
• Better Reach
• Convenience

​​​​​This is bringing more and more people to the RHC's and the hospital giants across the country are thinking about new business models to compete with RHC'S by partnering with these retail clinics.

This has resulted in recognition of lower cost base and providing ​​​​​​​better treatment and services in order to compete.

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