The MGH Chelsea Health Center has now opened a new Respiratory Illness Clinic (RIC) to evaluate patients with respiratory symptoms and determine whether they can be treated safely in the outpatient setting. The RIC is designed to serve patients who are seen at MGH health centers in Chelsea, Revere, Charlestown and Everett, however, it is open to all – MGH patients or not – and regardless of their health insurance status and their immigration status. Make an appointment through your MGH doctor or call 617-724-7000.
The Chelsea clinic marks the third RIC that is seeing, screening and testing patients as part of our COVID-19 response. RIC patients are those who have acute respiratory symptoms along with risk factors for severe illness. An evaluation at the RIC will determine whether a patient can be managed at home or requires ED care or inpatient admission. Testing for COVID-19 is available, but only for those who meet the current testing criteria. Patients who test positive will receive further guidance on home supportive care and protecting their loved ones from exposure. They will also receive follow-up calls from clinical staff at designated intervals. In Chelsea, medical interpreters are available for multiple languages. RIC visits are by appointment and walk-in. The clinic is open from 8 am to 8 pm, 7 days a week. Please note, the RIC is located in the Chelsea Health Center (151 Everett Ave, Chelsea, MA 02150), and the recently assembled tent in the parking lot will be used for initial patient screenings in the future.