Advocate Health Care to close clinics in Walgreens drugstores
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Advocate Health Care announced Wednesday that it has decided to close its clinics inside Illinois Walgreens drugstore locations.
The 47 clinics will all close on Thursday, Feb. 6.
The hospital group said the closures will allow it to expand its virtual services and in-person care at its primary and urgent care locations.
Advocate also noted that it is opening neighborhood care locations in settings such as churches and community centers on the city's South Side, and is enhancing its outpatient clinic at Imani Village, at 95th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue, by adding immediate care with more doctors and services and more appointment availability.
The Walgreens Advocate clinics are each staffed by two medical office assistants and additional clinicians who support virtual care. Advocate is partnering with Walgreens to navigate the transition and will work to find alternative roles for affected employees.