In many communities, access to healthcare isn’t just a challenge—it’s a roadblock. That’s where mobile health units (MHUs) step in, bringing vital care directly to those who need it most. The Texas Women’s Healthcare Coalition (TWHC) recently had the opportunity to visit a mobile health unit operated by one of our coalition members, Women’s and Men’s Health Services (WAMHS). What we found was more than just a clinic on wheels—it was a beacon of hope, bridging healthcare gaps, reducing barriers, and transforming lives.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear how much this clinic meant to the community. Every patient we spoke to had a story—stories of struggle before finding the clinic and stories of relief after receiving care. Many shared how they once faced overwhelming obstacles, from transportation barriers to financial hurdles. But thanks to the mobile clinic, they now had a place where they felt welcomed, respected, and, most importantly, heard. They weren’t just receiving care; they were building trust with healthcare providers in a way they hadn’t experienced before.
By bringing healthcare straight to the heart of communities, these mobile units make preventive care, reproductive health services, and general medical care more accessible. Brittany Bontello, a young patient, shared her experience of discovering lumps in her breast—a terrifying moment for anyone. Initially afraid of what the cost of care might mean for her, she found hope through the clinic. Thanks to its affordability and accessibility, she was able to get the medical attention she needed without hesitation.
But the clinic’s impact goes beyond medical treatment. It also plays a crucial role in guiding patients through the often overwhelming world of healthcare access. Carolina Paez, Medical Assistant for WAMHS and Project Coordinator for the MHU, has helped countless patients navigate programs like Healthy Texas Women (HTW), walking them through the process step by step. Her dedication ensures that patients don’t just receive care for today, but also have the resources they need for a healthier tomorrow.
Healthcare providers and local leaders all spoke passionately about their commitment to this mission. Their work has led to life-changing outcomes—patients managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol, receiving vital cancer screenings, and gaining access to long-term contraceptive options. The impact is undeniable.
Mobile health clinics aren’t a temporary solution; they are a critical and transformative part of our healthcare system. They provide more than just services—they offer reassurance, dignity, and hope. As we continue advocating for expanded healthcare access, TWHC is committed to uplifting these stories and championing initiatives that bring care to all Texan women and their families.