Advantages Of Walk-In Clinic Lab Tests

Posted on: 30 December 2019

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When you need a laboratory test, you could schedule an appointment with your doctor's office. However, getting your lab work done through your local walk-in clinic instead has distinct advantages. Here are some benefits of walk-in clinic laboratory testing.

Laboratory Testing at a Walk-In Clinic Is Convenient

At a walk-in clinic, you don't have to check your schedule and call for an appointment, which may not be available for a while. When your schedule allows, simply walk in and let the receptionist know what you need done. And because most walk-in clinics have extended hours, you won't need to take off work or miss school to get the lab work you need done.

Laboratory Testing at a Walk-In Clinic Is Affordable

For people who don't have health insurance and need to pay out of pocket, walk-in clinics offer a cost-effective alternative. Scheduling laboratory testing at a hospital is typically much more expensive than tests at a walk-in clinic would be.

A Walk-In Clinic Offers a Variety of Laboratory Services

Most walk-in clinics offer a wide array of laboratory tests. Whether you need a quick pregnancy test, want to check your blood sugar to see if a call to your endocrinologist is warranted, or have a sore throat that just won't go away and you suspect strep throat, a walk-in clinic can quickly see you and provide rapid results.

Many walk-in clinics offer other types of testing as well. For example, they may have their own radiology department. If you need X-rays for a possible broken bone, you won't have to go to the hospital to get it done. If you have a bad cough and are prone to respiratory infections, a quick chest X-ray will let you know what you are dealing with.

Many walk-in clinics can provide medical testing for things such as life insurance policies, workers' compensation claims, and physicals for sports participation or specialty licenses, such as a commercial driver's license.

A Walk-In Clinic May Offer More Privacy

While HIPPA laws protect your medical records and privacy in theory, your confidentiality can be compromised in some situations. For example, if you want to be tested for sexually transmitted diseases but your neighbor happens to work at your regular doctor's office, you may be reluctant to have the testing done in their clinic. People who live in small towns or rural areas often find themselves in this situation. A walk-in clinic can potentially provide the anonymity you need.