Mobile clinic gets job done

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This article was published 23/02/2015 (3346 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

It has taken some time to iron out the kinks but it appears everything is working well for mobile clinics that are providing health care services to five communities in the Southern Health region.

When the buses started visiting Woodridge, there were some hiccups with Hydro and internet connections at the site.

“It’s now working very well,” reported Mike Fehr, regional manager for primary care integration. “We haven’t done a formal evaluation yet but we have heard a lot of compliments.”

The mobile clinic operates similar to a quick care clinic where a registered and a nurse practitioner tend to patients. This clinic moves to five different communities within Southern Health each week. In the Southeast, Woodridge residents have access to the service every Thursday and then Dominion City each Friday.

“Woodridge took longer to set up than Dominion City due to tree coverage and getting a pole high enough and in the right spot (for Internet access),” Fehr explained.

The mobile clinic has two exam rooms with patients being able to have many health care needs met right in their community. They no longer need to travel to larger centres for things like prescription renewals, regular check-ups, referrals, immunizations and lab services. They can also receive treatment for minor ailments and help with managing chronic disease or conditions.

“Having a nurse practitioner on the bus is incredibly valuable for primary care in the communities.”

There is also a room for a community health nurse to provide information.

People can simply show up at the mobile clinic but Fehr encourages setting up appointments.

“We have same day or walk up appointments available, we know there is a need for that. But we want you to phone ahead and make an appointment if you can.”

The same toll-free number is used for all five communities. It is 1-855-644-3515. Mobile clinics are equipped with wheelchair lifts and come complete with the same medical equipment and technology one would find in any clinic.