More than 80 percent of urgent care centers across the country reported growth in 2013 to accommodate an increased patient base, according to the Urgent Care Association of America's 2014 Benchmarking Study.
Urgent care centers in general have experienced a surge of growth this past year because they provide patients with an option for treatment for acute illnesses and injuries other than going to the emergency department or a primary care physician's office, according to UCAOA.
Urgent care centers are ideal for treating common illnesses or minor injuries, such as the flu, colds, urinary tract infections, sprains and minor bone fractures.
In anticipation of treating even more patients in the coming year, many urgent care centers — 60 percent — reported rapidly increasing services, including adding more locations, equipment, office space and hours of operation.
According to the survey, more than 80 percent of urgent care centers reported offering walk-in, after-hours and weekend access so patients can have greater access to healthcare services at times that are more convenient to them.
Indeed, convenience, access and the cost of seeking care at urgent care centers have contributed to an increased patient base. The survey found most urgent care centers provide a wait time of 30 minutes or less to see a provider, and an entire patient visit typically takes no longer than 60 minutes. Additionally, nearly half of all visits to urgent care centers result in an average charge of less than $150. In comparison, the average cost of a trip to the emergency department is $1,354.