BOISE, Idaho — Primary Health Urgent Care clinics in the Treasure Valley are warning patients they could experience longer wait times. The clinics said the problem stems from a prolonged illness season and an ongoing worker shortage.
"We're seeing much less COVID and flu now, but plenty of cold viruses are still circulating," explained Physician Director of Urgent Care, Dr. Ann Weiss. "We're also starting to see some stomach flus, which are pretty common this time of year. When you combine these illness trends with routine physicals and drug screens, plus injury and workers compensation visits, it all adds up to a very busy urgent care setting."
Alecia Dobson, Chief Operating Officer stated the clinics are trying to ameliorate the problem.
"We ask for feedback after every visit, and the number one complaint we've heard this spring is related to wait times in urgent care. We want our patients to know we hear them, and we're doing everything we can to make their wait as comfortable and short as possible. We provide water, coffee, phone chargers and WiFi in our lobbies, and also have patient transfer protocols when there's a nearby clinic with shorter wait times. Our staff are also feeling the effects of this busy season and we ask for everyone's patience and understanding during this time," she stated.
The clinics stated that people can do the following to help shorten wait times:
First, go online to www.PrimaryHealth.com and reserve your urgent care visit before you come in to the clinic. Patients who booked online in April saw their wait times reduced by up to 20 minutes.
Second, when possible, plan your urgent care visit for a Saturday or Sunday after 11 AM, or a weekday from 6 – 8 PM. Avoid peak times like Mondays, weekend mornings and weekdays around 5 PM.
People can get more information and schedule appointments here.
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