CVS Minute Clinic for physical?

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Hello,

A physical exam is required for my nursing program. My personal physician is not open for regular appointments due to COVID-19. Has anybody gone to the CVS Minute Clinic to get their physical done? What was it like? What do they have you do?

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I have not, but this is a formality; you need your piece of paper signed. I doubt any walk-in is going to belabor things too much. If it's really out of your way you could call ahead and make sure they're able to do it. Other than that I say go for it. They almost certainly aren't going to have you do anything crazy.

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6 hours ago, JKL33 said:

I have not, but this is a formality; you need your piece of paper signed. I doubt any walk-in is going to belabor things too much. If it's really out of your way you could call ahead and make sure they're able to do it. Other than that I say go for it. They almost certainly aren't going to have you do anything crazy.

I'm hoping I don't have to get undressed. I'm a little more on the chonky side since quarantine too. Not obese, but I could stand to lose 20 lbs now. Are they just checking vitals and reflexes?

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I would be very surprised if you have to get totally undressed at something called "minute clinic," you know? My guess is they will do a basic (and possibly cursory) physical exam. They will hopefully check a few more things than vitals and reflexes.

I say--whatever will be, just get it done. Don't work yourself up over it. Keep your eye on the goal and get that paper signed.

Side note: You are getting this done so that you can attend school to learn how to care for patients--who will also feel vulnerable. It just is what it is. Anyone who is remotely professional won't think twice about the kind of things you're worrying about (or won't be judging you the way you judge yourself).

As soon as you get it done it'll be over and one less thing to worry about! Do it!

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Specializes in SICU, trauma, neuro.

I haven’t, but have taken my kids for sports physicals... much more convenient than scheduling an appointment. It involved a height/weight/vitals, and interview for the info asked on the form. The PA/NP listened to their hearts just to verify there wasn’t a new murmur but don’t think they even did much more with the stethoscope.

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5 hours ago, Here.I.Stand said:

I haven’t, but have taken my kids for sports physicals... much more convenient than scheduling an appointment. It involved a height/weight/vitals, and interview for the info asked on the form. The PA/NP listened to their hearts just to verify there wasn’t a new murmur but don’t think they even did much more with the stethoscope.

Thanks for the details! I was hoping this is what it would be like. I"m guessing they might have been even more thorough on a kids sports physical than just a basic exam to enter a college.

As @JKL33 said, what would you expect with something called the "Minute Clinic." I'm guessing the NP/PA there is probably timed and/or paid by how many people they can push through there.

Alright, the Minute Clinic it is then.

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9 hours ago, JKL33 said:

I would be very surprised if you have to get totally undressed at something called "minute clinic," you know? My guess is they will do a basic (and possibly cursory) physical exam. They will hopefully check a few more things than vitals and reflexes.

I say--whatever will be, just get it done. Don't work yourself up over it. Keep your eye on the goal and get that paper signed.

Side note: You are getting this done so that you can attend school to learn how to care for patients--who will also feel vulnerable. It just is what it is. Anyone who is remotely professional won't think twice about the kind of things you're worrying about (or won't be judging you the way you judge yourself).

As soon as you get it done it'll be over and one less thing to worry about! Do it!

Thank you for the encouragement. I was hoping to avoid it due to cost mainly. I pay $5 copay for my regular MD and the Minute Clinic is around $80. The MinClin is also about 20 miles away. My local CVS doesn't have one.

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Any chance there is an urgent care affiliated with your primary care office, or another urgent care that might possibly take your insurance?

That's too bad about the cost and the distance!

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11 hours ago, JKL33 said:

Any chance there is an urgent care affiliated with your primary care office, or another urgent care that might possibly take your insurance?

That's too bad about the cost and the distance!

Unfortunately, there is no outside affiliation. It's a HMO so everything is done within the organization.

I'll be out around $150 compared to $10, once you factor in the eye exam as well. Oh well. It's gotta be done.

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Specializes in Postpartum/Public Health.

Hello polycalca,

If you're exploring a physical exam at CVS Minute Clinic for your nursing program, they should be able to handle the basics—height, weight, vital signs, and a general check-up. It's quick and convenient, especially if your usual doctor isn't available. However, if Minute Clinic doesn't meet all your program's requirements, consider other options like urgent care centers, local health departments, or community clinics, which might offer more comprehensive services on a sliding scale. Always double-check with your nursing program to ensure all specific needs are covered!

Good luck with your nursing journey!

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