SHAMOKIN DAM - A new Geisinger Careworks walk-in clinic has begun seeing patients in the Colonial Village Plaza along Routes 11 and 15.
The public is invited to tour the new location during an open house from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 11.
In late 2012, Geisinger Health System announced it would open between 20 and 25 walk-in medical clinics within the next two years and throughout the state, creating more than 100 jobs. The growing popularity of Careworks clinics among consumers can be attributed to their convenience and affordability, according to Careworks associate vice president Steve Tracy.
"Careworks clinics do not require an appointment, are conveniently located, involve only a short wait time are open evenings and weekends and most of all, they are affordable," Tracy was quoted in a Geisinger press release. "We bill insurance and patients only pay their insurance's customary co-pay."
Patients generally visit Careworks facilities for basic health services related to colds, sore throats, minor cuts, wounds and general immunizations. Careworks also treats other minor health problems such as allergies, asthma, infections and sprains.
Perhaps the most important aspect of Careworks, Tracy said, is that they help relieve chronic overcrowding in hospital emergency rooms.
"Emergency department over-utilization is a serious concern - one that places a major financial burden on patients, health insurers, health care providers, employers, communities and even our entire economy," Tracy said.
The new 1,500-square-foot Careworks clinic will be staffed seven days a week, and no appointment is necessary. The clinic will be open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends. Its staff includes Jessica Rigel, PA-C, Paula Zemaitis, PA-C, Tina Wolfe, LPN and Diane VonNeida, LPN.
During the April 11 open house, the first 100 people in attendance will receive free gift bags. All visitors can sign up to win a grand prize gift bag full of Careworks gear and a children's gift bag. The event will feature children's activities, a live radio remote by WFYY 106.5 FM, refreshments, and more.
On the Net: www.careworkshealth.com/clinic-locations/shamokin-dam