New retail health clinic industry group meets to discuss quality, safety standards

Mar 22 2007

The Convenient Care Association, an organization representing 18 companies that operate retail health clinics, held its first general meeting on Monday at the University of Pennsylvania to discuss quality and safety standards at retail clinics, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

The clinics, which treat routine health problems, such as flu and strep throat, typically are staffed by nurse practitioners.

At the meeting, which drew more than 200 industry personnel, the CCA said it would monitor care quality, establish electronic health record databases and encourage patients to find primary care physicians.

Hal Rosenbluth, president of the association's board and co-founder of Take Care Health System, said association members have agreed to use evidence-based treatment, collect patient-outcome and satisfaction information, and submit to peer and physician reviews, among other quality measures.

Rosenbluth also said members have agreed to build relationships with other health care providers and share patient information.

Association Executive Director Tine Hansen-Turton said, "As an industry, you want to be out first with your own standards" (Burling, Philadelphia Inquirer, 3/20).