MinuteClinic Offers Camp Physicals for the Millions of Summer Campers Heading to the Woods and Shores

WOONSOCKET, R.I., May 17, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 11 million campers attend one of approximately 12,000 camps in the United States on an annual basis according to the American Camp Association.  As parents prepare to send kids off to summer camp, MinuteClinic walk-in medical clinics inside select CVS/pharmacy stores are making it easy and more affordable for campers to get the physicals they need to be able to participate in camp and sports activities.

Now through July 31, 2011, camp and sports physicals at MinuteClinic are $39, a $20 savings off the standard price of $59. The pre-participation physicals are offered seven days a week, including weekday evening hours, at MinuteClinic locations across the country. No appointment is necessary. An additional $5 savings is available when camp leaders complete an online enrollment form and register their group or team of 12 or more. Program details and enrollment forms are available at www.minuteclinic.com/physicals

"Camper health and safety starts at home, which is why many camps require a pre-participation physical," says Paulette Thabault, MinuteClinic Chief Nurse Practitioner Officer. "So it's important for parents to be aware of camp health requirements and to obtain a physical in May or June before the kids' bags are packed."

During a camp physical, MinuteClinic family nurse practitioners or physician assistants measure height and weight, review health and immunization history, perform a simple exam, help with any required registration paperwork and provide safety and education tips.

Once a camper is cleared to participate in activities, the practitioner stamps any required forms and references 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. Pre-participation physicals should not replace an annual wellness visit with a primary care provider, according to Thabault.

Insurance is not accepted for any pre-participation physical exams. Payment is due at the time of the visit (additional lab charges may apply). Requirements for physicals vary by state.

MinuteClinic also offers services and treatment for summertime ailments, including seasonal allergies, minor sunburn, swimmer's ear, poison ivy and deer tick bites, along with common illnesses such as strep throat, pink eye and sinus infections.  Minor wounds, abrasions and joint sprains are treated, and common vaccinations for influenza, tetanus, pneumonia, Hepatitis A & B and meningitis are available at most locations.

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