VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System launches mobile medical unit to support Cleveland area homeless Veterans

VA Northeast Ohio Health Care System (VANEOHS) recently unveiled a new mobile medical unit (MMU) to increase care for Veterans experiencing homelessness or those who are at risk of experiencing homelessness by meeting them where they are.

The MMU serves as an exam room that moves from one location to another to provide primary care, women’s health, audiology, laboratory and other services for Veterans who may not have access to a local VA medical center or a community-based outpatient clinic.

“The VA mobile medical unit is an initiative that is supported by our Homeless Patient Aligned Care Team,” said Leslie Yoak, homeless programs nurse manager. “The team is focused on addressing the distinct challenges that homeless Veterans face both accessing and engaging in health care.”

Managed by VANEOHS’ Homeless Patient Aligned Care Team (HPACT) and in collaboration with other local VANEOHS homeless programs, the MMU will continue to work to address the various barriers preventing Veterans from accessing proper healthcare, often including a lack of transportation to get to VA medical facilities.

MMUs can provide Veterans with services such as health assessments and education, preventative care, mental health services, and referrals to VA homeless programs and other resources.

Yoak said the HPACT has already made significant strides in assisting the area’s homeless Veterans.

“Over the last month, we have been able to provide medical care, and other supportive services to Veterans at the shelters, and transitional housing locations for Veterans experiencing homelessness,” Yoak said. “This has allowed us to provide support to our Veterans that have barriers with their care, and work to assist with the needs of our homeless population.”

In May 2022, VA’s Homeless Programs Office released a competitive funding opportunity for VA healthcare systems to apply to receive an MMU. In total, VA awarded 25 MMUs valued at $6.2 million nationwide.

NOTE: The MMU will be onsite during the 2024 Homeless Standdown from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 20, at the Cleveland Public Auditorium, 500 Lakeside Ave. East, Cleveland.

Damien Horvath, Public Affairs Officer

(216) 339-5240