Why Kids Doc on Wheels Downsized Its Mobile Clinic

1. What are the benefits of a Sprinter style mobile clinic?

A Sprinter style mobile clinic can be easier for staff to drive, use less fuel, and create a more personal environment for patient care. Kids Doc on Wheels experienced these benefits after moving from a 40 foot RV to a smaller unit.

2. Why might a healthcare organization choose a smaller mobile clinic instead of an RV?

A large RV can be more difficult to assign drivers to and more expensive to operate. Kids Doc on Wheels chose a smaller unit because it made more sense for the program’s goals of operating efficiently and economically.

3. Who can drive a Sprinter style mobile clinic?

Kids Doc on Wheels found that its smaller unit could be driven comfortably by more members of the team, including providers and other staff. This reduced the challenge the organization had experienced finding someone comfortable driving its larger RV.

4. How does a smaller mobile clinic affect patient care?

The smaller interior allows the doctor, patient, and other team members to work together in the same space. The Kids Doc on Wheels team says this helps them talk with patients, take vitals, and provide the individual attention many children need.

5. What should you consider when downsizing a mobile clinic?

Consider who will drive the vehicle, operating costs, available space, equipment needs, program requirements, and budget. Kids Doc on Wheels worked through these considerations when choosing a smaller mobile unit that could still support the resources and equipment its program needed.