Mobile Health Units

PHFMC is utilizing Mobile Health Units (MHUs) in response to the needs of underserved communities in Punjab and provide access to healthcare for millions of people. --endline--MHU is a custom vehicle loaded with equipment, medical supplies, and skilled professionals, all set to bring the healthcare, which is otherwise inaccessible, closer to where people live and work. The main reason for mobile health care is provision of accessible services that are welcoming to homeless people who can’t or won’t go to fixed-site clinics. Mobile units are the sole source of health care in some rural communities and have also demonstrated their value in areas devastated by hurricanes, floods, and other disasters. Another justification given for mobile health outreach is cost containment — providing less expensive primary care alternatives than emergency rooms, and keeping homeless people with behavioral health disorders out of jail. Reported strategies used by mobile health programs to improve access to ongoing care include: compassionate, culturally competent outreach; help with transportation to clinics and other incentives to promote engagement in a therapeutic relationship (food vouchers, hygiene kits, clothing); a consistent mobile service schedule; and assistance in applying for public benefits including health insurance.

MHU Services

All MHUs are providing generalized services in the following areas:
• OPD for common ailments including dispensing of medicines using essential drugs list (EDL) for BHUs
• Minor surgical treatment including dressing drainage, etc.
• Mother and child health (including pre-natal and post-natal services)
• Family planning services beyond the scope of LHWs
• Diagnostic assistance:
o Ultrasound
o Basic lab tests
• Referral and training support for Lady Health Workers (LHWs)
• Support to activities of outreach health workers and school health services

MHU Team

1. A Medical Doctor
2. Lady Health Visitor
3. Lab Technician
4. X-Ray Technician
5. Paramedic staff
6. Bio-Technician.

MHU Deployment Plans

Currently, there are 6 MHUs deployed to provide mobile healthcare services across Punjab. These MHUs cover maximum number of patients and changes their location after every few hours, completing 3 shifts in a day.

1. Bahawalpur
2. Bahawalnagar
3. Rajanpur
4. Muzaffargarh
5. DG Khan
6. Mianwali