jeudi 23 octobre 2014

Mobile Urgent Care Provides A Valuable Safety Net

By Dominique Martin


Although new federal legislation has enabled many people formerly without medical insurance to purchase coverage, a considerable number still lack that basic protection. Many live with chronic economic hardships that make paying for standard checkups difficult or impossible. Mobile urgent care is structured to bring both medical personnel and the latest technology to neighborhoods where even lower-cost options are still not within reach.

Brick-and-mortar urgent treatment centers have traditionally been a recommended alternative for patients seeking a less-costly option to visiting a standard emergency or trauma center located in a hospital. Without insurance, the cost of emergency treatment skyrockets, wait times routinely last multiple hours, and there is little follow-up. Urgent need centers routinely treat common ailments and injuries, have access to lab tests and x-rays, give physicals, and more.

For people unable to see a doctor regularly, a mobile office can be a more cost-effective way to receive needed help. The units are generally in remodeled recreational-style vehicles outfitted for medicine, including the latest equipment. The staff usually includes nurse practitioners as well as doctors, and some have even added dental services for those with urgent problems.

Although the overall economic situation has improved somewhat, many people have begun to pay the price for ignoring or neglecting health concerns over the years. The current wave of diabetes has created a category of older people who may be somewhat aware they are at risk, but have not yet developed neuropathy or vision problems. A visiting doctor provides necessary education for living with this condition, including regular monitoring.

There are relatively few restrictions regarding patient eligibility. Children are given vaccinations and treated for common problems such as earaches and colds, while elderly people with diminished financial resources are also encouraged to take charge of their own health. Areas experiencing and influx of immigration set aside political polarization in order to help people of all statuses achieve optimal health.

In addition to immediate medical concerns, some centers help recently hospitalized individuals who may receive little or no treatment post-discharge. Having this support can cut lengthy recovery times, reduce the incidence of post-surgical infections, and provide encouragement for family caregivers. For those who live alone, knowing they have this option reduces worry and increases mental health.

Many patients would receive little or no personalized medical information without these units. Doctors and nurses look beyond immediate physical issues and routinely provide education on nutrition and dietary needs, administer prenatal exams, and help parents make sure their children are vaccinated. Young adults benefit from information regarding safer sex and STD transmission, and some centers provide dental services.

A single modified vehicle services more than four thousand patients in a year, and demand shows few signs of diminishing. Educational material and health screening for people not actively ill helps people avoid future problems while holding down basic costs. Whether people are coping daily with the problems of aging and poverty, or have had trouble affording standard insurance, bringing care to the patients who need it most helps eliminate that gap.




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