After years of planning, a mobile clinic initiative spearheaded by Dr. Andrew Boozary has finally kicked off in Toronto, aiming to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities.
The pilot project, a collaboration between the University Health Network (UHN) and the Toronto Public Library (TPL), brings primary care closer to those in need by setting up clinics at different library branches across the city. Staffed with a Registered Nurse, nurse practitioner, and a community health worker, the mobile clinic offers a range of medical services akin to those provided by a family doctor.
Dr. Boozary, leading the initiative from UHN’s Gattuso Centre for Social Medicine, expressed excitement over the positive response from patients who have already benefitted from the mobile clinic setup. The clinic operates out of vans that are strategically stationed to remove barriers to access, with no need for identification or OHIP cards.
The mobile team is trained to engage with individuals who may be hesitant to seek healthcare, catering to the diverse needs of the community. Dr. Boozary emphasized the importance of evolving healthcare delivery to address the gaps in primary care services across Ontario.
Funded by the province and philanthropic donations, the initiative currently operates two vans, each costing around $200,000. CityNews had the opportunity to witness the mobile clinic in action at TPL’s Sanderson branch, where it offers services four days a week, including at Toronto Community Housing locations.
Aly Velji, the senior manager of adult services at TPL, highlighted the significance of hosting healthcare services within the library setting, emphasizing the potential to connect individuals with additional resources in the city. While the mobile clinic currently serves only the Sanderson branch, plans are in place to expand its reach to more locations that cater to vulnerable populations.
The mobile clinic operates every Wednesday afternoon from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sanderson branch, with aspirations to grow and reach more communities in need.