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Walk-in clinics: What to know before you go

What does it cost to get treated at a walk-in clinic?

Many walk-in clinics advertise that they offer services for treatments at a lower price than you would pay if you waited to see your doctor. Some clinics post the cost for each service on a board outside the clinic so that you know what you'll pay before you're seen. While the cost of services varies from clinic to clinic, you can generally expect to pay within a certain range.

Approximate costs of treatment for common conditions at walk-in clinics

Condition Cost for treatment
Sinus infection $50-$95
Strep throat $50-$95
Bladder infection $60-$95
Pink eye and styes $50-$95
Wart removal $60-$200
Minor burns $50-$200
DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) shot $60-$65
Flu shot $25-$35

Retail walk-in clinics usually accept cash, checks and credit cards. Many clinics accept insurance, but not all providers will pay for treatment at retail walk-in clinics. Call your insurance company before going to a clinic if you're concerned about your coverage, or check the Web site of the clinic you want to visit. Some clinics list what insurance plans have agreed to reimburse for treatment.

When should I see my doctor instead of going to a walk-in clinic?

Retail walk-in clinics might be a good option for you, but if you're very sick, you should probably skip the visit and head straight to your doctor, an urgent care clinic staffed by doctors or the emergency room. Signs that your condition is too serious to go to a retail walk-in clinic include:

  • A fever over 103 F (39.4 C) for conditions such as sinus infection or strep throat
  • A stiff neck or severe pain for conditions such as ear infections, strep throat or upper respiratory infections
  • A recurrent condition, such as having more than four cases of sinus infection or strep throat in a year
  • Deep tissue damage or blistered burns
  • A weakened immune system from another condition or medications you take

If you go to a retail walk-in clinic and the nurse practitioner or health care professional seeing you decides you're too sick to be treated at the clinic, you'll be referred to the emergency room or a doctor affiliated with the clinic.

Retail walk-in clinics aren't a substitute for regular visits with your doctor. Tell your doctor about any care you receive at a walk-in clinic during your next visit so that your medical history is complete.

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GA00055

Jan. 22, 2008

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