Burlington County residents now have an added option that will roll into nearby towns for things like general health screenings, vaccinations and other important health services.

The Burlington County Commissioners and Burlington County Health Department unveiled a new Mobile Health Vehicle recently, which will bring services directly to local communities, a press release stated.

The mobile vehicle, a converted recreational vehicle, was unveiled on April 2 at Rowan College at Burlington County’s Spring Into Good Health Fair and will be deployed to various community events throughout the year, it said.

The Health Department’s goal is to expand staff to allow it to deploy twice a week to prescheduled locations throughout the county, the county stated in the press release.

The MHV was acquired and transformed into a health vehicle by the county with a $538,730 appropriation added to the FY 2024 State Budget via resolution sponsored by State Senator Troy Singleton and Assemblywoman Carol Murphy, the release added.

Health screenings can be critical

“Burlington County is home to more than 460,000 people spread across 820 square miles. It’s our responsibility to protect our residents and ensure all communities have access to resources and services that promote good health and safety,” said Burlington County Commissioner Randy Brolo, the liaison to the Burlington County Health Department, in the press release.

“This vehicle makes our Health Department better equipped to fulfill its mission and deliver critical services to vulnerable residents, regardless of whether they’re insured or have access to transportation. It’s a great addition and we want to thank Burlington County’s partners in the Legislature for helping to secure the funding that made this possible.”

The MHV, which is wheelchair accessible, was outfitted with two exam rooms, a registration/consultation area and bathroom. It is also climate controlled, has running water for sinks, and a refrigerator for vaccines and patient samples, the release explained.

“Collaboration is key to community health, and the Mobile Health Vehicle is an investment in preventative care and outreach that is proven to make a difference in health outcomes,” said Burlington County Health Department Director Dr. Holly Funkhouser Cucuzzella in the press release.

“It’s possible because of dedicated staff and health care workers and because of the support we receive from the Commissioners and partners in all levels of government.”

Congressman Herb Conaway said simple health screenings like blood pressure checks and blood glucose and cholesterol levels can be critical since those conditions don’t always have symptoms.

Conaway is a physician and served as the Burlington County Health Department Director from 2019 to 2024.

Original Article