Modern Healthcare
Letter to the Editor
To the Editor:
Todd Sloane's July 16 editorial (p. 31), "Another turf war," is completely off-base. Ensuring that all patients have timely access to high-quality health care is a top priority for physicians, and we support the safe operation of store-based clinics.
We recognize store-based health clinics can be a good option for patients looking for a flu shot or quick evaluation of whether or not a sore throat is strep throat, but we cannot allow haste to compromise the safety and quality of care for patients.
The American Medical Association developed principles for the operation of store-based clinics to ensure patient safety and the continuity of care. These principles include ensuring appropriate physician oversight and establishing a referral system for when symptoms require care beyond what can be provided at the clinic.
These are guidelines for operation that are meant to protect patients. Physician offices must operate under federal regulations, and high standards of care should be followed and expected whether health care is delivered at your doctor's office or at a store-based clinic.
We want patients to have access to the health care they need when they need it, and will continue working to ensure that any facility that provides health care services is operating at the highest possible level.
Sincerely,
Edward Langston, MD
Chairman of the Board, American Medical Association
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