As part of the response to the Covid 19 pandemic, PCL leased two mobile vaccination units to support the vaccination of harder to reach groups in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

The results were so successful that PCL purchased two decommissioned ambulances to continue efforts to expand healthcare delivery within primary care.

Through strong community relationships and collaboration with the ICB, PCL ensures these vehicles are deployed in low vaccine uptake areas and those with high footfall to ensure maximum coverage.

Each vehicle is supplied with a specially trained vehicle manager who is responsible for ensuring the vehicle is set up correctly to deliver its services and a nurse who administers the treatments and gives advice to patients.

PCL’s Roving Healthcare Units have continued to play an important role in providing Covid -19 vaccinations within the PCL region. They have also diversified the services which they have been able to offer.

The RHU team have not only supported various GPs surgeries with vaccination provision, but have also worked alongside a large number of specialist healthcare teams to offer a wide variety of clinics including:

Cancer Awareness

Sickle Cell

Mental Health Awareness

Fibro Scanning 

Child Health and Early Years

Hypertension and Blood Pressure

Diabetes Awareness

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

Immunisation/MMR

All clinics are supported by a social media campaign provided by PCL, in order to raise awareness and maximise the number of patients who attend.

The response from both healthcare providers and patients alike has been overwhelmingly positive.

The RHUs have become a vital tool in outreach work and addressing health inequalities. Many patients have stated that they find the RHUs less daunting than having to attend a GP practice or regular clinic. Convenience and ease for patients have been major factors in their on-going success.

For many healthcare leads, the RHUs have been able to provide expanded resources for their team.

PCL is committed to supporting local providers including Primary Care Networks, GP practices, councils and community organisations as well as participating in community events.

These vehicles are also available for hire for clinical services.