Date of Award

4-6-2026

Embargo Period

4-6-2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Health Administration

Department

Health Administration

Additional Department

Health Sciences and Research

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Caitlin Koob

Second Advisor

Jillian Harvey

Third Advisor

Edrin Williams

Abstract

Background: Health disparities are linked to rising healthcare costs in the United States, particularly related to healthcare accessibility. Mobile Health Units (MHUs) have proven to be an effective intervention in reducing barriers to healthcare services, for example, providing early access to prenatal care, thus reducing infant mortality rates. This study focused on the facilitators and barriers to implementing an MHU program, based on staff perspectives and service outreach, to improve maternal and infant health outcomes.

Methods: This study employed a qualitative-dominant mixed-methods research design. Data was collected through interviews to assess staff perspectives. Secondary data analysis of quantitative data was conducted; this included a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) survey and operational program data. The Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework was used to evaluate program effectiveness and impact.

Results: The Ronald McDonald Care Mobile (RMCM) Program demonstrated effectiveness in regard to accessibility, specifically, early access to prenatal care services, however the program was limited in scope clinically, due to licensing requirements. The most impactful services provided by the RMCM at the time of the study included blood pressure screenings, pregnancy and interpreter support services, and resource navigation. Findings also demonstrated that gaining trust in the community improves continuity of care, a challenge in prior literature.

Conclusions: Evidence suggests MHUs are an effective intervention for reducing barriers to healthcare access for underserved populations and may be associated with improved health outcomes. MHU program sustainability relies on strategic financial planning and ensuring clinical licensing requirements are met. Future research on financing MHUs is warranted.

Rights

Copyright is held by the author. All rights reserved.

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