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Susan Oakland
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RediClinics Inside of H-E-B Stores Diagnose and Treat Influenza Patients
May 1, 2009 (HOUSTON, TX) – Instead of heading to an emergency room or busy doctor’s office, individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms that may be caused by the H1N1 virus (swine flu) can visit one of the 21 RediClinic locations inside H-E-B stores for convenient and affordable diagnosis, testing and treatment.
RediClinic’s clinicians can administer a ‘rapid flu test’ to immediately determine if a patient has the influenza A virus. If a patient tests positive for this strain, a culture will be sent to the appropriate health department for further testing to determine whether it is the H1N1 virus (swine flu).
RediClinic’s clinicians are also prepared to prescribe antiviral drugs, when medically appropriate, and to educate and answer consumers’ questions about the H1N1 virus (swine flu). RediClinic’s clinicians are updated daily on the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Texas Department of State Health Services guidelines for diagnosing and treating H1N1 virus (swine flu).
According to the CDC, there are now 141 confirmed cases of the H1N1 virus (swine flu) and one death. H1N1 virus (swine flu) is a viral respiratory infection that originated in animals but can be passed from person to person. H1N1 virus (swine flu) symptoms are similar to other influenza virus symptoms and include a fever over 100 degrees, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion and body aches. Additionally, those infected with H1N1 virus (swine flu) also may experience diarrhea and vomiting, which are not commonly observed in influenza patients.
“It is imperative that individuals who have flu-like symptoms receive immediate medical attention, in order to minimize their suffering and reduce the risk to the community,” said Web Golinkin, CEO. “RediClinic is well equipped to provide residents with convenient access to information about the H1N1 virus and affordable initial diagnoses, testing, and treatment.”
There are several treatment options available to those diagnosed with influenza, including four prescription antiviral drugs. At this time, the CDC recommends the use of TAMIFLU (oseltamivir) or RELENZA (zanamivir) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with H1N1 virus (swine flu). Additionally, the CDC has provided information on how patients can reduce their risk of infection, including:
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Washing hands regularly with soap and water |
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Staying in good general health |
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Getting plenty of sleep |
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Engaging in physically activity |
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Managing stress |
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Drinking plenty of fluids |
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Eating nutritious foods |
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Avoiding surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus |
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Avoiding close contact with people who are sick |
RediClinics are in-store healthcare facilities that are staffed by certified nurse practitioners and physician assistants who work with local physicians to diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications for common medical conditions, such as earaches, strep throat, and upper respiratory infections. RediClinic’s clinicians also administer a wide range of preventive services, including health screenings, medical tests, flu shots and other vaccinations, and basic physical exams.
RediClinics are open seven days a week (including most holidays) and offer extended hours on weekdays. Adults and children over age two are welcome, no appointments are necessary, and a typical visit takes about 15 minutes.
RediClinic visits are covered by the five largest commercial health insurance carriers in Texas – Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield of Texas, CIGNA, Humana and UnitedHealthcare and a growing number of other third-party payers including Medicare. For those who do not have health insurance, or who are covered by a plan that does not have an agreement with RediClinic, all “Get Healthy” visits cost $75.00, including most instant diagnostic tests that may be required.
About RediClinic LLC
Since 1989, RediClinic has provided people with easy access to high-quality, affordable healthcare in retail outlets and at employer worksites. Today the company operates 21 clinics in H-E-B grocery stores in Houston and Austin, Texas. For more information about clinic locations, hours of operation, and services, visit www.rediclinic.com.
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