Going to the doctor can be a hassle. Luckily, The Salinas Valley Health mobile clinic comes to Alisal.
The Mobile Clinic operates on Mondays from 3:30-7 pm and is free of charge. The purpose of this mobile clinic was to serve better health opportunities for our community by increasing access to care for those who are in need of medical attention. “There are a lot of clinics in town, but the difference is that a lot of patients cannot afford to see a doctor, and that’s the reason why this project started, to fill the gaps in the community of people who are uninsured and who do need the service but can’t afford to pay for it,” Olga Morales, a community health advocate who works in the clinic, said.
The mobile clinic can provide critical medical care anywhere, since it’s a state-of-the-art 40-foot vehicle containing two separate exam rooms, Wi-Fi, and has the ability to be a laboratory. The clinic is staffed by a nurse practitioner or a physician assistant, a medical assistant, community support, a community health advocate, and a coordinator.
The services they provide include:
– Sports physicals
– Women’s Health
– Primary Care
– Preventative Health care
– Urgent Care
– Simple Urgent Care
– Health education resources to manage chronic medical problems
– Health screenings
– Annual Exams
Services at the clinic are provided on a first-come, first-served basis unless an appointment has been scheduled in advance. To ensure a timely visit, you are encouraged to book an appointment through the Salinas Valley Health Mobile Clinic App. While appointments are recommended for a smoother experience, the clinic also welcomes walk-in patients and will make every effort to see you, ensuring that even those without an appointment will receive care.
Just because they come to Alisal doesn’t mean they only serve students. “We see any type of patient, we also do sports physicals,” Morales said. “We’re basically an urgent care but we’re free of charge.”
The clinic has been a welcome resource in the community. “When we started, we would see at least 50 patients waiting,” Morales said. “We’ve had many patients since we opened who hadn’t seen a doctor in over 10 to 20 years, and they came to us because we offered a free service.” Working with the clinic allows Morales to connect people with different programs to better their needs, giving her a chance to spread awareness about different resources people can use for themselves.
One more way the clinic gives back is by providing opportunities for students to earn community service hours. Interested individuals should check in with the volunteer office at the hospital to participate. (831) 757-4333
