Yale University

Accessibility and utilization patterns of a mobile medical clinic among vulnerable populations.

TitleAccessibility and utilization patterns of a mobile medical clinic among vulnerable populations.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2014
AuthorsGibson, Britton A., Debarchana Ghosh, Jamie P. Morano, and Frederick L. Altice
JournalHealth & place
Volume28C
Pagination153-166
Date Published2014 May 19
ISSN1873-2054
AbstractWe mapped mobile medical clinic (MMC) clients for spatial distribution of their self-reported locations and travel behaviors to better understand health-seeking and utilization patterns of medically vulnerable populations in Connecticut. Contrary to distance decay literature, we found that a small but significant proportion of clients was traveling substantial distances to receive repeat care at the MMC. Of 8404 total clients, 90.2% lived within 5 miles of a MMC site, yet mean utilization was highest (5.3 visits per client) among those living 11-20 miles of MMCs, primarily for those with substance use disorders. Of clients making >20 visits, 15.0% traveled >10 miles, suggesting that a significant minority of clients traveled to MMC sites because of their need-specific healthcare services, which are not only free but available at an acceptable and accommodating environment. The findings of this study contribute to the important research on healthcare utilization among vulnerable population by focusing on broader dimensions of accessibility in a setting where both mobile and fixed healthcare services coexist.
DOI10.1016/j.healthplace.2014.04.008
Alternate JournalHealth Place

External Links