Atlantic, IA — Atlantic Medical Center, RHC (AMC) is launching a new Rapid Care service on Monday, February 24. AMC Rapid Care is walk-in care that is open seven days a week for patients of all ages. Tammy Bireline, Chief Clinic Administrator, says “We want to be here for our patients when they need care. This helps bridge that gap between when it’s not an emergency, but you need to be seen and your primary care provider is not available.”  Beginning Monday, February 24rh, AMC Rapid Care will be open Monday through Friday from 9-a.m. to 9-p.m. It will also be open on Saturday and Sunday from 10-a.m. to 6-p.m. AMC Rapid Care does not offer appointments; patients can just walk in, check in at Admissions, and then wait to be seen by the AMC Rapid Care provider. Patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis.

Bireline says “AMC Rapid Care isn’t a substitute for your regular provider, and it’s also not a substitute for the Emergency Department. This service is really for those minor health issues – ear infections, coughs, minor stitches – that can’t wait.” Similarly, AMC Rapid Care providers will not address chronic conditions or take care of prescription refills because those issues are most appropriate to be discussed during an appointment with a primary care provider. It is also important to note that AMC Rapid Care providers will not prescribe narcotics.

The medical team at AMC Rapid Care includes Rebecca McCann, ARNP, Emily Nadler, PA-C, and Dr. M.A. Johnson. Dr. Johnson will also continue to work in the Emergency Department. The cost of a visit to AMC Rapid Care is the same as office fees for Atlantic Medical Center appointments; regular co-payments still apply and should be paid during the check-in process. Due to the addition of AMC Rapid Care and the extended evening hours, the previous Evening Clinic entrance will no longer be used. All patients coming to Atlantic Medical Center, whether for a scheduled appointment or AMC Rapid Care, should use the Main Entrance.