As part of its transformation to better meet the needs of the local community, Providence Health System is now offering urgent care services to D.C. residents. The Providence Urgent Care Center is the first ever urgent care center in Ward 5, a sign of the evolution in our community’s health care needs. Ward 5 residents – and those in surrounding neighborhoods – now have access to timely urgent care services in addition to Providence’s renewed focus on primary and preventive care.
We will provide treatment for a wide range of common, non-emergency illnesses, that are not life or limb-threatening. These services range from treating those suffering from the flu, strep throat, or asthma, to the treatment of sprains, strains and broken bones, along with offering vaccinations.
Providence is confident this offering will prove positive for patients’ health outcomes. Not only are urgent care facilities equipped to address minor, non-life-threatening emergencies and injuries, seeking urgent care can often be a less expensive and faster alternative to the ER. In fact, overuse of the ER is one of the main reasons for rate increases to a person’s health insurance premium.
Input from our stakeholders and research in the District revealed three key areas where Providence should focus its investments to better serve residents. They are: 1) managing chronic health conditions; 2) caring for aging neighbors, and 3) strengthening mental and behavioral health services. That’s why Providence is redeploying its resources toward primary and urgent care offerings that systematically meet patient needs and address the social factors that influence a person’s health.
The ongoing changes at Providence also reflect a new and exciting frontier for health care. As the industry continues to evolve, gone are the days where providers only cared for people when they were sick. These changes reflect Providence’s mission to partner with patients to support their well-being as a whole person — in times of illness and good health. It’s part of our focus on keeping people from needing emergency care in the first place and moving with a sense of urgency to provide the right care at the right time and right place.
Providence has always been committed to serving all persons, with special attention to those most vulnerable.To live out that mission in today’s rapidly changing health care sector, we are evolving to meet patients where they are and to improve health outcomes in the District. By expanding and enhancing primary and urgent care services – and community-based health offerings – Providence will continue to have a positive impact on the well-being of people in the District. To learn more about our transformation, visit ProvidenceHealthyVillage.org.