Women & Infants Hospital - Family Van

What is it?

A state-of-the-art mobile clinic that began in 1996, the Family Van keeps a regular schedule with stops weekly or monthly at more than a dozen locations across the state. It also makes appearances at health fairs, schools and other events. Operated by the Women & Infants Center for Health Education, in collaboration with health service agencies, community organizations, and Brown Medical School, the Family Van offers a wide assortment of services to the people who need it most. It might mean screening a baby for lead, talking to teenagers about nutrition, conducting a pregnancy test, or helping an elderly woman track her blood pressure, sugar level, or cholesterol.

Who is it for?

Care on the Family Van is confidential, free, and available to anyone who comes through the door.

Why do they do it?

The Family Van fills a tremendous void in the lives of poor, uninsured men, women, and children in Rhode Island. It offers basic screenings, health care advice, referrals to physicians who will treat clients on a sliding scale, and peace of mind to those with chronic conditions.

Impact

In one year alone, the program recorded more than 3,000 visits, helped more than 1,500 new clients, added multiple new sites serving the elderly, hosted nearly a dozen influenza clinics, participated in more than 50 health fairs and clinics, and lectured at schools and community centers. In addition, through a partnership with the American Cancer Society and the City of Providence, the Family Van coordinated the Summer Fun and Sun Safety Tour, screening children, teenagers, and adults for skin cancer at city pools and recreation centers.

Contact: Constance A. Howes
President/Chief Executive Officer
Telephone: 401-274-1122, ext. 1104
E-mail: chowes@wihri.org