Bringing Medical Care Directly to Veterans
For many veterans experiencing homelessness, accessing healthcare can be a significant challenge. To bridge this gap, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has deployed a Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) up to three times a week, ensuring that veterans receive essential medical services right where they are. One such veteran, Edward Wood, who served in the U.S. Navy from 1979 to 1982, benefits greatly from these services. Having sustained injuries to his knee, neck, and shoulder during his service, Wood now receives treatment, including acupuncture, to help manage his pain.
Programs like these are instrumental in addressing veteran homelessness. The 2023 Southern Nevada Homelessness Continuum of Care Census Report recorded over 900 unhoused veterans, but through initiatives such as US Vets, which provide both transitional and permanent housing, that number has been nearly halved within a year. Wood, along with his loyal dog RJ Brittney, now has a place to stay, demonstrating the impact of these support systems.
Overcoming Barriers to Healthcare Mobile Medical Unit
In addition to lacking permanent housing, many veterans struggle with transportation, making it difficult for them to seek medical attention. The mobile medical unit alleviates this problem by bringing healthcare directly to them.
“Many veterans don’t have vehicles and rely on public transportation, which makes accessing medical services difficult. Having the mobile unit come to us is a blessing,” Wood explained. On a recent visit, he sought treatment for COPD, hip pain, and medication refills, as well as battlefield acupuncture to relieve his symptoms. The convenience of the MMU ensures that veterans can receive both routine and urgent medical care without the added challenge of finding transportation to a clinic or hospital.
A Year of Impactful Service
As the VA’s mobile healthcare program approaches its one-year anniversary in May, its impact is evident. Since its launch, the Mobile Medical Unit has made nearly 350 contacts with veterans, offering treatment for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, as well as urgent care for infections and other immediate health concerns.
During a recent deployment, the unit attended to about a dozen patients, providing them with the care they deserve while acknowledging their service to the nation. By continuing to deliver healthcare directly to veterans in need, programs like this serve as a critical lifeline, offering not just medical assistance but also hope and stability for those who have sacrificed so much.
