Ireland's first walk-in urgent care facility, VHI SwiftCare Clinic, was yesterday officially opened in Dundrum, Dublin, to complement hospital A&E departments.
The private clinic provides treatment for unexpected injuries such as sprains, bumps, potential breaks, minor burns and cuts that may need stitching.
A spokeswoman said the clinic aims to have patients "in and out within an hour" and estimates that some 40,000 patients will pass through its doors during its first year.
A consultation at the clinic costs €85 or €45 if a patient is referred by their GP irrespective of whether they have health insurance or a medical card. An A&E hospital consultation is generally free for medical card holders or costs approximately €60 otherwise.
On-site X-ray and blood pathology diagnostic services are available at the new clinic as well as suturing and plaster application. The clinic is not confined to VHI members but available to everyone and is open from 8am to 10pm 365 days a year.
Plans for the opening of a second facility on Dublin's northside are scheduled for early 2006, but a location has not yet been secured.
The clinic is a joint initiative by the VHI and The Well, a primary medical care company. A medical director, four doctors and a team of nurses have begun work in the clinic.
A spokeswoman said that depending on the success of the venture, more may be established throughout Ireland.
Opening the facility, Minister for Health Mary Harney welcomed the "innovative" clinic.
"There are approximately 164,000 visits to A&E departments in south Dublin every year and up to three out of every five patients presenting in these departments are treated for injuries and illnesses that could be provided in a community-based location," she said.
However, the Irish Medical Organisation has harshly criticised the new clinic's private policy. "It only serves cash-paying customers," said Dr Martin Daly. "It excludes people on lower incomes and medical-card holders. It is disingenuous to suggest that medical card holders can attend."