Do you know what a Minute Clinic is? Have you ever been to one? If you live in the state of Massachusetts you might not get to if the state medical society has its way. Do you think doctors have the right to block access to easy convenient care because the clinic has no running water? I am interested in hearing your opinion and experience.

My understanding is that minute clinics are staffed by nurse practitioners and P.A.s in some states. They are what is called mid-level practitioners along with Physician Assistants. The nurses in this category of mid-level are given a bit more autonomy by most states and fit in better with the minute clinic business model. In North Carolina there are clinics in many CVS pharmacies. I don’t think running water is a major issue since most studies show that alcohol foam or gel is better at preventing the spread of bacteria. Many patients that visit “urgent-care” do so because they don’t have a private M.D. or can not see their doctor for the problem they have now.

What do you think about follow-up visits being limited? I am in favor of it. I work urgent care because I like the speed and the variety of problems. I like the intellectual stimulation but don’t like the chess game of internal medicine. I want patients to get their chronic problems managed else where. If it were law, I could tell them no and have no repercussions. It is best for them to have a relationship with a regular physician.

What is your opinion? Let me know whether you favor these regulations or oppose them. Your written comments are appreciated and valued.

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