The Hershey access clinic: a model for improving patient access.

Abstract

When waiting times for new and return patient visits at Hershey Medical Center's Department of Dermatology approached 4 and 2 months, respectively, the Hershey access clinic was implemented to increase access for patients with acute problems. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of the Hershey access clinic on patient care. The great majority of patients were satisfied with the access clinic. However, there has been no effect on the no-show rates or patient waiting times for routine appointments. Fifty-seven percent of patients had eruptions, most commonly acne/rosacea, and 43% had neoplasms, most commonly warts. This study was limited by the fact that it was a survey filled out by the patients after their encounter. The Hershey access clinic successfully provides acute problem-focused care, and patient satisfaction is high.