News Summary: Accenture sees retail clinic growth

(AP) News Summary: Accenture sees retail clinic growth
By The Associated Press
EXPANSION: The number of retail health clinics in drugstores and big retail stores will double to about 2,900 by the end of 2015, according to the consulting firm Accenture PLC.

WHAT THEY DO: The clinics treat minor illnesses when a patient doesn’t have a doctor or if a physician is not available. They are generally open for longer hours than a doctor’s office and on weekends.

THE REASON: Accenture’s report says a flood of newly insured patients from the national health care overhaul and a shortage of primary care doctors will boost demand for the clinics.