Exploring Mobile Health Clinics: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Healthcare Management
• Health Equity

Background:

• Mobile health clinics (MHC) are crucial for improving healthcare access among historically marginalized populations.
• Understanding the operational aspects and outcomes of MHC programs is essential for optimizing their impact.
• Existing literature highlights the need for a comprehensive overview of MHC services and their effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of mobile health clinic programs.
• To identify target populations, settings, services, professionals, and outcomes of MHCs.
• To synthesize findings on barriers, facilitators, and strategies for effective MHC implementation.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology based on the Arksey and O'Malley framework was employed.
• A comprehensive literature search was performed across PubMed, CINAHL Complete, and EBSCO's Business Source Complete databases.
• Data from 38 relevant articles published between 2017 and 2024 were systematically extracted and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Key themes identified include the significance of MHC setting, professional roles, and services offered.
• The review highlights diverse populations served and measured outcomes across different MHC programs.
• Barriers and facilitators to MHC program success were identified, emphasizing the need for adaptable service models.

Conclusions:

• Mobile health clinics play a vital role in bridging healthcare disparities for underserved populations.
• Interprofessional collaboration beyond traditional settings is crucial for delivering inclusive care.
• Findings offer valuable insights for designing and implementing impactful mobile health services in communities facing health inequities.