In the past, the word clinic was usually associated with free or almost free healthcare. In many countries across the globe, the clinic is still the place where medical attention can be had with very little if any financial outlay. They were primarily a source of outpatient care. Many clinics, both in the USA and elsewhere, where designated as community clinics. In general, these were a departure from free clinics and required that patients pay a small fee to defray budgetary expenses.
As modern medical technologies have improved, so have clinics. Now many clinics are privately run, although free ones still exist. Not only are clinics today housed in attractive and modern buildings, many are as well equipped as hospitals. In fact, some compete with hospitals in terms of state of the art equipment and services provided.
Types of Clinics
The modern clinic has evolved into many different types serving different clientèle. Some common options are:
- Fertility clinics
- Polyclinics
- Weight loss clinics
- Abortion clinics
The name of these specialized clinics is normally enough to tell what they do.
In the past they were primary care centers, but now many are specialized institutions treating only specific ailments. While many still operate as outpatient facilities, there are some that keep patients for short-term treatment. In some, doctors will refer patients to a specialist or a hospital for further diagnosis or treatment where needed.
Some clinics are referred to as walk-in clinics and provide a kind of emergency care. Many of the patients here do not need to go to the emergency center at a big hospital, but still need medical intervention for an injury.