There are several reasons why someone would choose to receive medical attention from a local urgent care clinic rather than going to a traditional hospital emergency department. Some urgent care clinics, for example, are available to see patients 24 hours a day. Others, or about 85%, are open for extended hours throughout the entire week. In addition to the convenience, the shorter waiting period, and the appointment costs, these clinics have doctors and physician assistants who are specifically trained in urgent care medicine.
Health Concerns and Baby Boomers
While individuals of all ages can experience chronic conditions, it’s been determined that this may be more prevalent with the Baby Boomer generation. It’s been estimated that six out of ten adults within this age bracket will need to focus on managing one or more chronic conditions by 2030.
A lack of physical activity may lead to a variety of health issues. Recent data indicates that one out of ten Baby Boomers aren’t as active as they could be. On a monthly basis, they are only engaging in a few days of physical activity. While it will depend on a person’s overall health condition, doctors will usually recommend engaging in some level of physical activity several times a week.
One of the reasons Baby Boomers may not engage in the recommended amount of weekly physical exercise is due to experiencing dizziness. Even though 70% of the population may experience this at some point in their lives, adults over 60 may have this experience more often. According to recent estimates, this can occur on a daily basis for 65% of adults over 60. Dizziness can also be accompanied by a loss of balance, which can lead to slipping and falling.
Chronic lower back pain affects a large percentage of the American population’s daily lives. This can be as much as 69% of the population, which includes Baby Boomers. While four out of ten individuals will exercise in order to alleviate their lower back pain, others choose to receive physical therapy or another type of treatment protocol.
Locate an Urgent Care Clinic Near You
If you haven’t been to a local urgent care clinic before, it’s important to note that the doctors and staff can treat a variety of illnesses and minor injuries. Most urgent care clinics can diagnose and treat ankle sprains and fractures. Furthermore, STD and TB testing, along with flu and other types of vaccines, are also available. Many of these clinics will also offer physical therapy, annual health check-ups, and sports and occupational physicals.
Another benefit of choosing to visit an urgent care clinic near you is that you can walk in without an appointment. Once you visit your local walk-in clinic, you will be able to learn more about the services that they provide. Remember that there is less waiting time and lower costs associated with urgent care centers, which are an added benefit.