School-Located H1N1 Influenza Vaccination: Categories of Commercial Community Vaccinators

September 13, 2009, 2:45 AM ET

Medical Services Firms (MSFs)

MSFs are nationwide or regional firms that provide many medical services, including temporary labor.  They also conduct seasonal influenza vaccination clinics in a variety of areas and venues, including commercial settings (e.g., supermarkets), work sites, schools, hospitals, and community centers.

Retail-Based Clinics (RBCs)

RBCs are defined as a medical provider housed inside a retail venue, such as a large chain discount store, retail grocer, or retail pharmacy. RBCs typically offer a limited ‘menu’ of services.  While a small number employ physicians, most are staffed by nurse practitioners, physician assistants, or registered nurses that follow a computerized decision-making system in analyzing care to offer to patients.  Most RBCs routinely provide at least one type of vaccine on site but do not offer off-site vaccinations. Because RBCs are engaged in large retail venues, they might make good partners for vaccinating the general public in non-traditional settings. However, there are about 10 states with no RBCs, and a number of other states may only have a very limited number of RBCs.

Temporary Medical Staffing Groups/Agencies

These groups or agencies supply temporary medical staff as one of their many services.  Most staffing groups/agencies offer services at a state or local level rather than at a regional or national level. 

Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs)

UCCs are differentiated from RBC because they are stand-alone sites and not attached to non-medical retailers. Most UCCs are staffed by physicians, though a small percent are staffed by nurse practitioners and/or physician assistants. Some UCCs are closely allied with, or owned by, hospitals, and they are equipped to address a much broader range of illnesses and injuries than RBCs. There are an estimated 8,000 UCCs nationwide. Some UCCs conduct workplace vaccination clinics, and most offer vaccination on site.