Albemarle Health - Field Clinics for Migrant Workers

The Gateway Community Health Centers (GCHC) Field Clinic Team consists of a nurse practitioner, outreach coordinator, outreach worker, and nurses. These volunteers deliver health care directly to migrant workers, setting up weekly field clinics during the growing season – from May to November. Nurses monitor blood pressure and glucose levels, run TB skin tests, perform rapid HIV screenings, and provide follow-up care such as dispensing free medication. Providers also make any referrals and write prescriptions as necessary.

What is it?

The Gateway Community Health Centers (GCHC) Field Clinic Team consists of a nurse practitioner, outreach coordinator, outreach worker, and nurses. These volunteers deliver health care directly to migrant workers, setting up weekly field clinics during the growing season – from May to November. Nurses monitor blood pressure and glucose levels, run TB skin tests, perform rapid HIV screenings, and provide follow-up care such as dispensing free medication. Providers also make any referrals and write prescriptions as necessary.

Who is it for?

Migrant and seasonal farm workers in Albemarle’s 1,947-square-mile service area, plus the local Latino community.

Why do they do it?

Most migrant care programs transport workers to health clinics, but Albemarle’s large geographical area makes that impractical.

Impact

The 2012 season included approximately 500 patient encounters.

Contact: Carolyn Allison
Interim Executive Director, GCHC
Telephone:
252-357-1226
E-mail: callison@albemarlehealth.org