Getting sick is never fun, but what's worse is when you aren't feeling well and can't get in to see a doctor for a few days. Allina Health Systems is looking to reduce that time feeling bad by opening a new clinic in the Faribault area by March of 2019. 

After opening two clinics in retail stores this spring, Allina Health System has plans for four more by March as part of a broader effort to make it easier for patients to get quick care for basic ailments.

According to the Star Tribune, Minneapolis-based Allina Health System disclosed the expansion plans, which will feature clinics inside Hy-Vee grocery stores that treat a limited set of health problems.

While retail clinics have been around for a while, health systems across the country are giving the clinics a new look as health insurers continue pushing for changes in how they pay doctors and hospitals for medical services.

In April, Allina announced it would open its new Allina Health Everyday Clinics inside grocery stores in Eagan and Lakeville. A retail clinic is coming to Robbinsdale in September, followed by new clinics planned for Brooklyn Park, Faribault, and New Hope by March 2019.

The clinics will be staffed by nurse practitioners or physician assistants who can treat minor illnesses ranging from strep throat to colds. The clinics will also be offering a variety of services like vaccine injections and sports physicals. The clinics will use an electronic health record that also has information about patient care from other Allina hospitals and clinics.

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