EBENSBURG —
Changing dynamics in health care re are reviving programs that seven years ago were considered counterproductive.
Conemaugh Health System’s MedWELL Urgent Care Center will return to Ebensburg on Monday.
Located at Conemaugh Ebensburg, 236 James-way Road near Walmart, MedWELL’s goal is to be a quick, convenient option, the health system said in a press release.
It will be open to walk-in patients seven days a week. The hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
Conemaugh closed the former Ebensburg MedWELL in 2003, saying it was part of a national movement to encourage patients to develop relationships with primary care doctors.
While that is still an important aspect of health care, Conemaugh is responding to consumer demand for more convenience, said Dr. David Carlson, chief medical officer.
“We want to stress that the MedWELL is not meant to replace the relationship between a patient and their primary care physician, which is extremely important,” Carlson said.
“We realize, however, that there are times that people need medical attention when their physician’s office is closed and the emergency room is the only option.
“MedWELL is designed to provide an alternative for care when nonemergent situations arise and the primary care physician is unavailable.”
The center will be staffed with physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and other medical personnel, and there will be some laboratory and imaging capabilities.
The model is being introduced in other areas by national pharmacies and other chains.
“We’d certainly prefer to be providing care locally, rather than large firms coming in,” Carlson said. “At the end of the day it’s a niche.”
Since the September 2008 reopening of
Richland Township MedWELL at 1450 Scalp Ave., 20,000 patients have taken advantage of the clinic.
Conemaugh suggests MedWELL is an option for patients who need care for colds or other common illnesses, sprains and strains, minor injuries, or skin and eye irritation.
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MedWELL Urgent Care Center reopening doors in Ebensburg
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