Convenient Sports Physicals Offered at MinuteClinic Walk-in Medical Clinics Inside Select CVS/pharmacy Stores for just $39

WOONSOCKET, R.I., March 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- As children and teenagers head to the field to participate in organized sports activities, MinuteClinic walk-in medical clinics inside select CVS/pharmacy stores across the country are making it easy and more affordable for them to get the physicals they need to play.

Beginning March 1 and continuing through May 31, 2011, MinuteClinic will offer spring sports physicals at $39 ($20 off the standard price of $59). The pre-participation physicals -- required by many states, school systems and athletic leagues -- are administered by certified MinuteClinic nurse practitioners and physician assistants who specialize in family health care. Exams are offered seven days a week, including weekday evenings, and no appointment is necessary.

"During the developmental years, children's bodies grow and change so rapidly that it's always smart to get them checked out to ensure it's safe to participate in a sport or start a new season," said Paulette Thabault, MinuteClinic Chief Nurse Practitioner Officer.  "During the visit, our practitioners review medical history and check to see if immunizations are up to date. They'll then record weight and height and provide a thorough physical exam that includes a check of vital signs and reflexes and an overall assessment of physical condition to make sure the child is not at risk for illness or injury. We also take time to answer questions and make each exam a teaching moment by offering educational tips about the importance of stretching, hydrating and avoiding overexertion so children can play their best."

Coaches, team leaders and athletic directors can also take advantage of an additional $5 team discount. Program details and the enrollment form can be found online at www.minuteclinic.com/physicals.

Once a child is cleared to play, MinuteClinic practitioners will stamp any required forms and reference the results provided on the official patient summary. Copies of the summary can be transmitted by electronic record, fax or mail to a primary care provider with patient permission. Typically this occurs within 24 hours. Sports physicals should not replace an annual wellness visit with a primary care provider, according to Thabault.

In addition to sports physicals, MinuteClinic offers camp, college and Department of Transportation (DOT) physicals on a daily basis at approximately 500 select CVS/pharmacy locations around the country. Insurance is not accepted for physical exams. Payment is due at time of the visit (additional lab charges may apply). Requirements for physicals vary by state and services are not available in Massachusetts or Nevada.

About MinuteClinic

MinuteClinic is a division of CVS Caremark Corporation (NYSE: CVS), the largest pharmacy health care provider in the United States. MinuteClinic is the largest provider of retail-based medical clinics in the United States with approximately 500 locations in 26 states and the District of Columbia. By creating a health care delivery model that responds to patient demand, MinuteClinic makes access to high-quality medical treatment easier for more Americans. Nationally, the company has generated nearly nine million patient visits, with a 95% customer satisfaction rating.  MinuteClinic consistently brings innovation to the marketplace and sets new standards for clinical quality that exceed the national guidelines established for store-based clinics.  MinuteClinic is the first retail health care provider to receive accreditation (2006) and reaccreditation (2009) from The Joint Commission, the national evaluation and certifying agency for nearly 15,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. For more information, visit www.MinuteClinic.com.

SOURCE MinuteClinic