Convenient Care

Convenient Care - An Extension of Primary Care

Patients at our Convenient Care locations are treated on a first come, first served basis. If your health concern is not life-threatening but still needs prompt attention, Convenient Care can be a much faster and more comfortable option. By directing non-emergency cases to our Convenient Care locations, we can help keep emergency rooms clear for those who truly need immediate, intensive treatment.

At Baystate Convenient Care locations:

• You're seen by experienced providers
• Our state-of-the-art facilities have imaging, X-ray, and lab services close by
• Our locations are wheelchair accessible and offer free parking

Walk in or Call for An Appointment

Patients may walk in for urgent medical services during operating hours at our Convenient Care locations.

Please keep in mind that locations may be closed to walk-ins and new registrations later in the day based on capacity. If you are planning on walking in after 3 pm, we recommend calling ahead to make an appointment, so we can coordinate your care and make sure the location can accommodate you based on capacity. If you're not feeling well, scheduling an appointment can also help you spend less time waiting and get the care you need more quickly.

Convenient Care is Affordable

We offer affordable, high-quality care with co-pays typically less than emergency room visits. In most cases, your co-pay for care in a Convenient Care location will be significantly less expensive than your co-pay for care at an emergency department. The difference varies by insurance provider, but the difference can be as great as $50 versus $200.

While we accept most insurance carriers, please contact your Convenient Care location directly for coverage benefits. We offer self-pay options, and we accept workers’ compensation and auto insurance claims.

We see patients who are outside of Baystate Primary Care, but a referral and greater cost sharing may be required according to your insurance. We will reach out to your primary care provider to secure a referral after the visit. If they are unwilling to give us authorization, the entire charge for the visit may become the responsibility for the patient.

Convenient Care May Be Quicker

When deciding between the emergency room and Convenient Care, understanding the differences in wait times can help you make the best choice for your situation. Emergency rooms prioritize care based on the severity of each patient’s condition, so those with life-threatening issues receive treatment first, while others with less serious needs may face longer waits, particularly during busy periods.

In contrast, our Convenient Care locations are designed to treat minor illnesses and injuries quickly, often seeing patients on a first-come, first-served basis. This approach generally results in shorter wait times for non-emergency concerns. During times of high demand, wait times at Convenient Care may increase, so it can be helpful to call ahead for an appointment or check operating hours and capacity.