Extended hours, open holidays

ThedaCare Physicians-Waupaca Walk-In Care Clinic is increasing accessibility for area residents seeking medical care.

Since opening last November, the clinic has averaged between 450 and 550 patient visits each month, with providers able to see 32 patients a day.

The clinic’s extended hours and weekend hours mean patients can receive care when they need it in a clinic setting rather than going to the emergency department, said Cori Caryl, clinical supervisor for ThedaCare Physicians-Waupaca.

The walk-in care clinic is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday.

It is also open from 8 a.m. to noon on Easter, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

“The overall feedback from patients is that the walk-in clinic has been a great addition to the services we offer at ThedaCare Physicians-Waupaca,” she said. “The walk-in clinic provides flexible care that works with each individual’s schedule. It opens up more availability for patients to be seen the same day they call or come to the clinic.”

Patients go to the walk-in clinic for a variety of needs, with cold and flu symptoms the most common, Caryl said.

Sinus infections, minor aches and pains and skin concerns are also common reasons for patient visits.

“What we see in the clinic really depends on what we’re seeing overall as a prevalent health issue, which can change depending on the time of year,” Caryl said.

During the influenza season, a large volume of patients went to the clinic seeking care, she said.

“On a day-to-day basis, our busiest time is about 3 p.m. and afterwards because school is out and parents bring in their children to be seen,” Caryl said.