You can still get care when you need it

For years, people around the world have done their part to slow the spread of COVID-19, including getting vaccinated, frequent hand-washing, wearing a face mask in crowded indoor settings and staying at home when sick.

During the early stages of the pandemic, people were urged to stay home and avoid medical centers unless they were experiencing serious symptoms or a life- or limb-threatening emergency. While these approaches may have helped to “flatten the curve,” they also may have made some people hesitant to seek medical care.

Delaying needed health care can have dire consequences. Those with chronic conditions may need regular care. And people experiencing emergent conditions, such as chest pain, trouble breathing or symptoms of stroke, should go to the emergency room immediately.

For less emergent conditions, patients can contact their primary care doctor. If they are not available, the Sharp Grossmont Hospital Care Clinic may be a great option for patients seeking care.

Minor illnesses don’t need to go untreated
The Care Clinic is a convenient option for minor illnesses; ear, nose and throat infections; skin infections; urinary tract infection (UTI) symptoms; minor cuts and burns; sprains and more.

“During the pandemic, people did their part by staying home so as not to get themselves or others sick,” says Dr. Eric Strukel, medical director of the Sharp Grossmont Hospital Care Clinic. "However, people need to have their health concerns addressed. You do not need to suffer at home. We are here and ready to serve you.”

Made to accommodate busy schedules
Located next to the main hospital, the Sharp Grossmont Hospital Care Clinic is open 8 am to 11 pm, Monday through Friday, and 8 am to 8 pm on weekends and holidays. Appointments can be made online or over the phone (although they are not required), and walk-ins are welcome.

These hours and options make it convenient to get care, even if illnesses or injuries occur at inopportune times. And the clinic often offers shorter wait times than urgent care centers.

Additional precautions in place
Medical facilities, including the Sharp Grossmont Hospital Care Clinic, have adapted practices to make getting care even safer for patients and employees. “We see patients quickly, and patients usually go directly to an exam room after registering so you are not sitting in a waiting room,” says Dr. Strukel.

Mandatory masking is enforced for all patients and employees, and masks are provided if a patient does not have their own. Employees self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and test for infection when appropriate. Hand hygiene is heavily reinforced, and the highest level of care goes into cleaning and disinfecting patient rooms between each visit.

Learn more about the Sharp Grossmont Hospital Care Clinic or schedule an appointment online today.