PWJ2 - Mobilizing Primary Care: Transforming Underused Units into Full-Service Delivery Sites

Session Description: Given the financial uncertainties many Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are facing and recognizing that several FQHCs own underutilized mobile health units, this session will discuss practical steps for transforming these mobile health units, which are typically dedicated to health screenings and immunizations, into full-service primary care delivery units.
By converting an existing mobile unit into a productive site, FQHCs can better meet the evolving demands of healthcare and make effective use of valuable resources. This session, presented by Capital Link, CohnReznick, and a health center that has successfully faced challenges in this transformation, will guide FQHCs through the key strategic phases necessary for successfully relaunching mobile health programs.
The presentation will focus on the strategic planning and operational aspects of relaunching a mobile health program. Key topics will cover conducting market and needs assessments to identify target patient populations, service areas and partners; establishing the right staffing model; setting performance metrics; identifying, developing a financial proforma to ensure the program's sustainability and vehicle considerations, including minor modifications and major vendor engagements, as well as maintenance basics. Using a real-world example, we will discuss the journey of a health center that currently operates a mobile program. This will encompass the origins of the program, its initial use, and the barriers encountered during its transition to a full-time primary care service.
Overall, this session empowers health centers to strategically expand their mobile health services, enhancing their role as trusted partners, employers, and providers in advancing health access and equity.