Inside many Colorado Target, Wal-mart, Kroger, and Walgreens stores you’ll find walk-in clinics like MedPoint Express, MinuteClinic, RediClinic, and now SmartCare Family Medical Centers. These in-store clinics allow a fast and convenient option for those with a minor medical need, like an ear infection, and want quick treatment. The problem with these clinics, right now, is that they aren’t accepted by any Colorado health insurance providers.
If you’re looking for another reason to get an HSA qualified plan, this is it. If you have a health insurance plan that would cover something minor enough to be treated in an in-store clinic, you’re probably throwing away a lot of money in wasted premium. The money used to pay for treatment at the in-store clinic could come from a health savings account. Although the payment for treatment wouldn’t count toward the deductible, the money would be pre-tax.
According to the Denver Post, the newest company to enter the walk-in clinic market, Smart Care, is negotiating with Colorado health insurance companies but hasn’t announced any deals.
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