The number of retail clinics has grown over the past 10 years, as has Americans' use of them. Here are the top five reasons people opt to visit these care settings.
Note: Data is from the Center for Studying Health System Change. Respondents could select multiple categories. Data reflects retail clinic visits in the 12 months of 2010.
Major reasons for choosing a retail clinic
1. The hours were more convenient — 58.6 percent
2. There is no need to make an appointment — 55.9 percent
3. The location was more convenient — 48.1 percent
4. The cost was lower — 38.7 percent
5. The person did not have a usual source of care — 24.6 percent
Primary reason for a retail clinic visit
1. New illness or symptom — 69.1 percent
2. Vaccination — 25.8 percent
3. Prescription renewal — 21 percent
4. Physical exam for school, camp or employment — 12.7 percent
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