Clinics are healthcare facilities that offer care that falls between that of a doctor’s office and a hospital. They often have extended hours and may be open on weekends and holidays, making them a good choice for patients who need after-hours care or can’t wait to see their doctor. Some clinics specialize in particular areas of medicine, while others are connected to larger health-care systems or hospitals and provide a broader range of services.
Clinic can be a word used to describe a general outpatient treatment center, or it can refer to a specific type of clinic, such as an AIDS clinic, fertility clinic or sexual health clinic. There are also dental clinics, which focus on the diagnosis and treatment of common dental problems.
The word clinic can also be used to describe a branch of a hospital or a separate department within a medical facility, such as a cancer clinic or a heart surgery clinic. The latter provides treatment for a patient who requires specialized care or complex procedures, and is typically located in a larger hospital.
A patient’s choice of clinic usually depends on the type of treatment they need, the level of expertise of the doctors at the clinic and the availability of services, including diagnostic equipment. For example, a clinic that specializes in treating cancer may have more advanced and expensive equipment than a clinic that treats minor injuries.
Some types of clinics include ambulatory surgery, family planning and women’s health, and pain management. There are also specialty clinics for children, sports injuries and respiratory illnesses like asthma. Some are free-standing, while others are located in hospitals and are known as hospital extension clinics.
Benefits of Employer-Sponsored Clinics
Many employers find that providing their employees with convenient access to healthcare through an employer-sponsored clinic can be a valuable benefit. Clinics can help employees manage chronic illnesses and injuries, and provide preventive care to keep them healthy. Employees who visit clinics regularly can establish a stronger relationship with their primary care provider and feel more in control of their health.
Besides providing convenience, an employer-sponsored clinic can help reduce workers’ compensation claims and OSHA recordable incidents. A clinic can also improve productivity by reducing the time that employees spend waiting to see a doctor or getting tests done.
Owning a Clinic
Owning a clinic offers more flexibility than a salaried position, and can be especially beneficial for those who want to work in an area of the healthcare industry that interests them. Clinic owners have the option to hire staff members who align with their vision and values, which can lead to a more cohesive work environment. In addition, they can set their own schedules and take time off based on personal commitments. Clinics can be a great opportunity to explore different aspects of healthcare and business management, and to pursue professional development paths that may not be available in other settings.