Corporate Wellness Goes Mobile (PDF)
Mobile programs often focus on patient populations based in community organizations, faith-based communities, and underserved areas. Companies can be overlooked as locations for mobile programming.
Working with employer groups is an effective way to reach diverse sections of the community. Many working adults have barriers to preventive care such as lack of time outside of work, the struggle of balancing work and childcare, lack of primary care providers in their area, or lack of health insurance. Healthcare at the workplace removes some of these barriers and improves access to care for a large portion of the community. Employees can access preventive care or acute care, then be referred to other resources.
Funding is one of the most significant challenges facing mobile programs. Corporate wellness is an excellent funding source. Many companies have wellness budgets and will allow direct billing for services. Some services can be billed to the company health plan. Healthcare systems will also see downstream revenue from referrals to primary and specialty care.
An important first step is building connections. Reaching out to local municipalities and school systems can be a great starting point. Building relationships with the Chamber of Commerce or faith-based organizations can provide leads for smaller businesses interested in services. Networking with insurance brokers and human resources executives can identify potential customers. Even collaborating with other mobile healthcare programs that provide employer services can lead to new business.
Some services like vaccinations, blood draws and annual physical exams are well-suited for mobile healthcare. But there is a wider variety of services that can be offered in a mobile unit. Most employers need drug testing, which can be provided in units with a bathroom. Mobile units can be used for hearing screenings or nutrition counseling. And mobile onsite clinics are a great way for small companies to offer their employees the benefits of an onsite clinic. Additionally, new service requests from companies may drive innovation.
Speakers:
◦ Nicole Cary, MSN, RN, Clinical Supervisor, Mobile Wellness, WakeMed Health & Hospitals
◦ Karen Robins, MS, Manager, Corporate & Community Health, WakeMed Health & Hospitals
Conference 2023