Doc-in-a-box or mini clinics are walk-in medical clinics have are often located in retail shops or outlets.  They provide prompt, affordable treatment for routine conditions and preventive care.   They are increasingly being used as a means to expand primary care and expand access points for services such as health screenings, medical tests, vaccinations, immunizations, and physicals.

Wal-Mart announced in February 2008 plans to open 400 new clinics in their stores within the next 2-3 years.   They will contract with RediClinic, a Texas-based company, to manage and operate the clinics which will treat minor ailments and also provide screenings, tests, and basic exams and prescribe medications. The clinics will be open seven days a week.

MinuteClinic model is to diagnose, treat and write prescriptions (when appropriate) for common illnesses.  It is in network for most insurers and claims that its service menu clarifies the co-pay clearly for patients.  It also access cash, checks and credit cards for uninsured patients.

Walgreens pharmacy operates in-store health clinics, accepting most major insurance plans and offering affordable rates for insured and uninsured patients alike.

Open 24/7 in many sites.  Be available on an as needed basis, no appointment necessary.  Provide timely care at an affordable price.   Provide patient at the time of services with information on cost of care.  Provide care at affordable prices to uninsured patients.  Provide low-cost prescriptions, as needed.  In pharmacies, patients can purchase their Rx in same store where clinical visit was provided. 

These businesses generally do some combination of the following: 

1. Accept reimbursement from major insurance companies at the insurer's standard payment rates (e.g. "usual and customary"). 
2. Join major PPO networks.
3. Accept payment from patients at favorable enough rates that they can usually get full reimbursement from their insurance companies.
4. Take out-of-pocket payments from uninsured patients.

• Transparency across pricing and reimbursement strategies
• Anticipation of Out of Pocket Revenue and Expenses
• Potential of new alliances or collective purchasing action