Overuse of Common Medications at Urgent Care Centers Highlighted in Recent Report
In a recent analysis of over 22 million visits to urgent care clinics across the country from 2018 to 2022, it was found that these medical facilities still lag behind in safer prescribing practices, despite a decrease in opioid prescribing since its peak in the early 2010s [1][3].
Overprescription of Antibiotics, Steroids, and Opioids
The study, based on insurance claims from a large national database, revealed that antibiotics were frequently prescribed for conditions where they are ineffective, such as certain ear infections, mild bladder symptoms, and common chest colds [1]. Similarly, opioids were handed out for minor injuries, stomach discomfort, and general muscle pain in situations that usually don't call for them. Steroids were also commonly used, particularly during COVID-19 visits, indicating a shift in treatment habits during health emergencies [1].
Potential Consequences
The overprescription of antibiotics contributes significantly to the global public health issue of antibiotic multidrug resistance, making disease treatment more complicated and increasing healthcare burdens [4]. Steroid overuse can lead to deleterious side effects, including immune system suppression and increased risk of infections. Opioid overprescribing is well known to increase risks of dependency, overdose, and death [1]. NSAIDs, including some steroids and related anti-inflammatories, can cause serious side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcer perforation, and even mortality in some cases [2]. Polypharmacy, often driven by overprescribing practices, disproportionately affects older adults and is a major driver of emergency hospital admissions [5].
Addressing the Issue
Addressing this issue is critical for improving patient safety and managing healthcare resources effectively. The study suggests that urgent care clinics may need better tools for smart prescribing, such as better training, alerts in their systems, and clearer rules about when these drugs should or shouldn't be used [1]. A better understanding of the risks associated with these drugs could lead to more careful prescribing choices [1]. However, it's important to note that the study's results may not fully reflect what happens for people with different or no insurance coverage [1].
References:
[1] Health Affairs. (2025). Urgent Care Overprescribing: Antibiotics, Opioids, and Steroids. [2] American Family Physician. (2020). NSAIDs: Commonly Prescribed, Often Misused. [3] JAMA Internal Medicine. (2023). Overprescribing in the United States: A Systematic Review. [4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Antibiotic Resistance Threats in the United States, 2019. [5] Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. (2018). Polypharmacy and Adverse Drug Events in Older Adults.
- In the realm of health and wellness, the overuse of therapies and treatments like antibiotics, steroids, and opioids in urgent care clinics could lead to serious consequences, such as antibiotic multidrug resistance, immune system suppression, and opioid dependency.
- To improve health-and-exercise regimens and reduce mental-health risks, it's crucial to advocate for better training and tools for prescribing practices in urgent care clinics, including alerts, clearer rules, and a better understanding of the risks associated with these drugs.
- Moreover, fitness-and-exercise routines and mental-health therapies should be considered as equally important in the health-and-wellness landscape, as they can complement the role of medical treatments, ultimately contributing to a more holistic approach to overall well-being.
