JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO - Due to recent patient feedback, a new appointment-based system takes effect July 1 at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center’s Urgent Care Center.
The new system will allow patients to pinpoint the time they will be seen for acute and non-emergency treatment, ultimately reducing wait times in the UCC.
Results from a recent survey indicated 70 percent of patients preferred an appointment-based system.
Medical care at the UCC is provided by military and civilian family health physicians, physician assistants, nurses and medical technicians, and is available to eligible Defense Department beneficiaries over the age of two.
To make an appointment, call the Consult and Appointment Management Office appointment line at 916-9900.
“This new system will better serve the patients,” said Maj. Kimberly Reed, UCC flight commander. “It will provide better continuity of care and support patient centered medical home care, which makes the patients the focal point of care.”
During normal duty hours, patients will be scheduled with their primary care management team.
If the patient’s PCM team does not have an available appointment, they will be given an appointment with the UCC. After duty hours, calls to the CAMO will be forwarded to the nurse advice line.
Those who feel they have a serious medical emergency, or who believe the absence of medical attention could lead to loss of life, limb or eyesight, should call 911 or seek medical care at the nearest emergency medical facility.
Patients who will likely need specialized care, surgery or inpatient admission within 24 hours should proceed to the San Antonio Military Medical Center at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, where medical services are available 24 hours a day.