Industry disruption caused by proliferation of urgent care clinics

The healthcare management industry has been disrupted in recent years by the proliferation of urgent care clinics. According to the Urgent Care Association (UCA), "Urgent care centres are health care facilities that focus on the delivery of ambulatory care in a medical facility outside of a hospital emergency department. Urgent care centres generally treat injuries or illnesses that are not serious enough to require a visit to an emergency department and provide care on a walk-in basis." These clinics, have become increasingly popular with patients who are looking for an alternative to traditional emergency rooms and primary care offices.

Urgent care clinics typically have shorter wait times than traditional emergency rooms, which can be beneficial for patients who are in pain or who need treatment as soon as possible. For example, Apollo Clinic, which has locations throughout India, is open round the clock and offers a wide range of medical services, including consultations with doctors, diagnostic tests, and minor surgeries.

Another factor contributing to the growth of urgent care clinics is their affordability. These clinics often offer lower prices than traditional emergency rooms, making them a more cost-effective option for patients who do not have life-threatening conditions. In addition, many insurance plans now cover visits to urgent care clinics, further reducing the cost for patients.

The proliferation of urgent care clinics has also had an impact on the healthcare management industry by creating new job opportunities. Many of these clinics are staffed by nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who are trained to provide a wide range of medical services and can work independently or under the supervision of a physician.

As these clinics continue to grow in popularity, it is likely that they will continue to disrupt the traditional healthcare system and shape the future of healthcare management. A PGDM in healthcare management will enable you to serve as a healthcare manager so that you can fulfil your responsibilities of making strategic decisions and understanding the operational, financial and administrative aspects of an urgent care clinic.