Mayo Clinic Health System’s Express Care in Albert Lea is celebrating its five year anniversary. The convenience care clinic was created to provide an additional health care option locally.

“With discussions of rising health care costs across the country, we’re excited to offer an affordable option in our own community for some basic, common ailments at a convenient location,” said Rita Moyer, Express Care manager. “We continue to evaluate the types of services the community is looking for and rely on feedback we receive from patients. Patients need to be given the option of the right care, at the right place, for the right price.”

Open seven days a week, Express Care is located within Hy-Vee, 2708 Bridge Ave., Albert Lea. No appointment is needed, although patients are asked to come 30 minutes or more before closing time.

Express Care provides quick, convenient, affordable services to individuals with minor health care needs. Staffed by nurse practitioners and physician assistants, services at Express Care include treatment of sinus infections, earaches and common colds, as well as vaccinations, ear wax removal, treatment for minor burns, abrasions and wounds and sports physicals. A menu of diagnoses and the cost for each is posted. Both cash and most insurance plans are accepted. A record of your visit will be included in your Mayo Clinic Health System medical record to assist in future follow-up care, if necessary.

With fees of approximately $50 and no appointment necessary, Express Care is another health care option in addition to clinic visits or Urgent Care. It is not intended to replace the care provided from a patient’s regular doctor or medical provider and Express Care is not a substitute for preventive care.

For more information on Express Care, including hours of operation, call the Express Care Information Line at 507-379-2244, or go to www.almedcenter.org/expresscare.