A Conference Connection That Sparked an International Partnership

At the Pittsburgh conference in 2023, Michele and Rosa met Antonio Perez Cabanillas from Mexico, who enthusiastically shared the mission of his organization, Un Buen Grupo de Amigos (UBGA). Their conversation planted the seeds for a meaningful collaboration that would extend well beyond the conference. Through continued communication, Michele and Rosa were invited to UBGA’s 19th-anniversary celebration in Mexico, where they had the opportunity to witness the organization’s impactful mobile healthcare services.

A Warm Welcome and Shared Goals

Upon arrival in Mexico, Michele and Rosa were greeted with open arms and introduced to UBGA’s mobile clinic team and their operations. They quickly recognized striking similarities between the outreach efforts in Mexico and those in the United States. From medical and dental services to community engagement, it was clear that mobile clinics play a crucial role in bridging healthcare gaps worldwide.

Their visit included a tour of mobile units, showcasing the effectiveness of providing medical care directly to underserved populations. Rosa, with her bilingual skills, played a key role in translating Spanish content, further strengthening the exchange of knowledge and ideas between the two organizations.

Mobile Clinics: A Lifeline for Communities

One of the most inspiring aspects of the visit was seeing the tangible impact of mobile healthcare. Michele and Rosa observed clinics in action, where medical professionals dispensed medications and provided much-needed care to patients. Their discussions with UBGA leaders highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by rural communities and the innovative solutions mobile clinics bring to the table.

A highlight of their visit was the gala at CEO Francisco Ayala’s ranch, where UBGA celebrated its 19th anniversary and introduced its newest mammogram mobile unit. The event brought together passionate healthcare advocates, reinforcing the importance of continuous collaboration and shared expertise in advancing mobile healthcare.

Looking Ahead: The Future of International Collaboration

The connections made at the Annual Mobile Health Clinics Conference are not one-time encounters; they can evolve into meaningful, long-term collaborations. Inspired by their experience in Mexico, Michele and Rosa are now exploring opportunities with UBGA to establish a coalition for mobile health programs in Mexico. The goal is to enhance collaboration within the mobile healthcare community while maintaining autonomy by utilizing private funding. Jesus Vega, who leads Institutional Development at UBGA, is spearheading outreach efforts, and the initiative aims to identify existing programs and strengthen their collective impact.

Additionally, Michele and Rosa participated in discussions about a new telehealth clinic being developed at UBGA’s corporate office in Puebla. This clinic will offer virtual healthcare services to underserved patients while also having an on-site physician for those in need of in-person care. Their visit reaffirmed that, regardless of location, mobile healthcare solutions are essential in ensuring equitable access to medical services.

The Power of the Mobile Healthcare Association

Michele shared how her meeting with Antonio at the conference led to an international collaboration that continues to grow. The conversation reinforced the importance of in-person meetings following virtual engagements, highlighting how these opportunities strengthen relationships and inspire new initiatives.

Through workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, the Association facilitates knowledge-sharing that extends beyond the conference, helping members exchange best practices and explore innovative approaches to mobile healthcare. These connections, built over time, support the ongoing development of collaborations and partnerships, furthering the mission to expand access to healthcare for underserved communities.

Moving Forward: Next Steps and Continued Engagement

Join us to celebrate the 21st Annual Mobile Health Clinics Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, on September 13 – 16, 2025. The Annual Mobile Health Clinics Conference has been the nexus where professionals come together to share insights and work towards a future where healthcare reaches every corner of our communities.

Conference Theme: Empowering Change: Shaping the Future of Mobile Healthcare

The annual conference serves as a dynamic platform for fostering partnerships among healthcare professionals, organizations, and technology providers. This event is dedicated to advancing the field of mobile healthcare by exploring innovative solutions and discussing the next frontier of healthcare delivery. With a focus on increasing access and equity, participants engage in meaningful conversations to drive positive change in the evolving landscape of mobile health services.

As we continue to build connections and expand our impact, this year’s conference will serve as an opportunity to collaborate, learn, and shape the future of mobile healthcare together. We invite you to join us and be part of this transformative event!

A big thank you to Michele and Rosa for sharing their experience and photos with us.

Michele Rigsby Pauley, RN, MSN, CPNP
Community Advisor
Public Health Alliance of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA

Rosa M Alcala
Manager of Community Outreach
AltaMed
Los Angeles, CA