Got a cough? Don't call, walk in!

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Daniel Brosam
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Have a cough, sore throat or runny nose and need over-the-counter medication?

Family health at the Malmstrom clinic is now offering walk-in services for coughs and colds.

“This allows patients better access to health care and improves the ability to be seen locally instead of being referred downtown,” said Maj. Ryan Seymour, 341st Medical Operations Squadron family health flight commander. “Coming to us also allows us to help diagnose problems and advise patients on what medications to take.”

Seymour said the primary symptoms the clinic will help with is runny nose, cough, sinus congestion or pressure, sore throat and post-nasal drainage.

This service is available Monday through Friday 8 - 10:30 a.m. and 1 - 3:30 p.m. Patients will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis.

After being seen by a nurse, patients are prescribed specific medication through the pharmacy focused at treating their primary symptoms and are able to pick it up the same day.

“The time from putting in the prescription at the front desk and receiving the medication is about a 20-minute turnaround time,” said Capt. Rachel Elder, 341st Medical Support Squadron chief of pharmacy services. “The service is free opposed to patients’ home care and it helps to free providers for better access for others who need a higher level of care.”

Individuals who are 65 years of age or older, 12 years old or younger, pregnant, whose symptoms have lasted longer than eight days or who have chronic medical conditions such as heart disease or lung problems, are required to schedule a medical appointment. Airmen part of the Arming Use of Force, flyer or Personnel Reliability Program should report to their respective clinic’s sick call or return to duty.

“We require an appointment (for these patients) because we want more time to assess individuals who have more complex conditions,” Seymour said.

With these changes, Seymour said there could be a delay being seen with the other services offered at the clinic.

“We ask if patients could please be patient as the family health clinic walk-ins are in addition to scheduled appointments and other walk-ins.”

For questions or more information, contact the medical group appointment line at 731-4633.