DIBOLL, Texas – For many in rural East Texas, getting to a health clinic can be tough. To change that, a new mobile health service is now on the road.
Jason Arnold, the city manager of Diboll, understands the struggle. “For families, the right healthcare at the right time can make all the difference,” he said.
East Texas Community Health Services is launching a mobile health unit. CEO Anita Humphreys mentioned that they’ve had the truck for six years. Until now, they mainly used it for events like COVID-19 testing.
“We’ve mostly done events, but now we want to create a regular schedule,” Humphreys explained. The goal is to bring healthcare to areas that don’t have it easily accessible. Diboll is the first stop on this journey.
Many residents face tough choices. Arnold pointed out that people often decide whether to leave town for care. “They wonder if they have the time, or if they can take off work or school,” he said.
This new program aims to tackle those issues, especially the long drive for care. Humphreys added, “It’s challenging to take three sick kids on a drive that could take 30 minutes to an hour from places like Zavalla.”
The mobile unit is well-equipped. It has an intake area and an exam room for primary care, allowing for blood pressure checks, and testing for common illnesses like strep and COVID.
“Community health centers adjust to meet the needs of the communities they serve,” Humphreys noted.
Currently, this mobile health program is in a trial phase, intended to last about six months. If successful, they plan to expand to more cities within Nacogdoches and Angelina Counties, and potentially establish a permanent site in Diboll.
Arnold expressed excitement about this possibility. “Having a permanent space would greatly benefit our community,” he said.
The mobile clinic sets up at 113 N Hendrick Ave. in Diboll every Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. People can call (936) 560-5413 for appointments, but walk-ins are also welcome. No insurance is needed.
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