Page 6 - TL HowTo Guide 2016

6TT HOW-TO GUIDE ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE TRI-LAKES EDITION OF THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE • SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 , 2016 Choose an
after-hours clinic
WITH SALINE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
After-hours clinics can be convenient places to see a doctor about minor health care problems when your primary-care physician is unavailable.
There usually isn’t a convenient time to get sick, and your primary-care physician is the best place to start when you’re sick or hurt. He or she knows your health his- tory and can make informed choices about your treatment and necessary tests.
But when your physician isn’t available or you need rapid medical attention, your local after-hours clinic may be the place to go. If your condition isn’t life-threatening, it is probably a bet- ter alternative than the emergency room at your local hospital.
“An urgent-care center or after-hours clinic is a great option if you’re suffering from minor ill- nesses such as earaches and infections; minor cuts, sprains and burns; fever and flu symptoms; cough, cold and sore throat; or urinary-tract infections,” said Anna Kipp, director of physician services at Saline Memorial Hospital, which operates the Bryant Medical After Hours Clinic. “Demand- ing schedules and busy lives don’t always fit into standard physician office hours; after-hours clinics make care convenient.”
You likely want a clinic located near your home. You should also understand the level of care the clinic provides, hours of operation and insurance plans it accepts. You should find out about the options in your town before you need medical assistance.
People who live in cities probably have several choices within a short distance, but if you live in a rural area, there might be only one option. Look closely at what the clinic can offer you. Sometimes, rural residents can get better care at an emergency room.
After-hours clinics can be particularly conve- nient for working parents with children who find it difficult to take time off from work during the day or who want to avoid their children
missing school. Common illnesses, as well as sports physical exams and flu shots, can be addressed at an after-hours clinic. Parents should select an after-hours clinic with a doctor who is qualified to treat children.
“In addition to their regular services, many cen- ters are now offering a wide range of treatments and preventive services, such as immunizations and wellness visits,” Kipp said. “The Bryant Medi- cal After Hours Clinic offers access to the hospital’s excellent services and technology. Most centers have the equipment to contend with colds, flu, strep throat or an ear infection. Others can assist you in managing chronic problems. For example, diabetics can often find quick, quality care at an after-hours clinic.”
Also, keep in mind that handling payment arrangements is your responsibility. You must know if your insurance covers the doctors in the facility. If you have no insurance, flexible pay- ment plans can usually be arranged. Most facil- ities also accept credit cards, checks and cash.
“When you investigate the options in your area, you do want to clarify how they bill,” Kipp said. “While the Bryant Medical After Hours Clinic bills like your doctor’s office, some urgent-care centers bill for fees like emergency rooms do, which are often at a much higher deductible rate.”
Such clinics are especially helpful when you are sick and can’t wait for an appointment to see your regular physician. At an after-hours clinic, you can see a doctor, get a prescription and go home quickly to recuperate.
While these facilities can’t solve all of your med- ical problems, they are an excellent option when you can’t see your regular physician.
— Courtesy of Green Shoot Media with contributions by Sarah DeClerk, special sections writer