Eugene “Gene” Scioscia, Jr., MD Chief Experience Officer | Allegheny Health Network
Eugene “Gene” Scioscia, Jr., MD Chief Experience Officer | Allegheny Health Network
Allegheny Health Network (AHN) has introduced a new mobile health clinic aimed at providing obstetrics and gynecologic care to underserved communities in the Pittsburgh region. The 37-foot OB-GYN mobile unit was unveiled during a ceremony at the Carnegie Library of McKeesport, attended by AHN leaders, community officials, and local residents.
The clinic is managed by the AHN Women’s Institute in collaboration with First Steps and Beyond (FSB). It will start offering services at the McKeesport Library in early March, with plans for additional stops throughout Charleroi, Clairton, Braddock, and McKees Rocks.
"AHN is committed to expanding access to women's health care, particularly in areas that are historically underserved or have limited access to maternity specialists," stated Marcia Klein-Patel, MD, PhD, Chair of AHN Women's Institute. She expressed gratitude towards clinicians and community partners involved in making this initiative possible.
The mobile clinic includes a blood draw area, bathroom, consultation space, OB/GYN exam room, and an ultrasound machine for diagnostic care and prenatal scans. The 225 square feet of clinical space allows healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive prenatal and gynecologic services.
Funding for the mobile van came primarily from a federal grant issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resources and Services Administration. This grant was secured through former U.S. House Rep. Connor Lamb's office.
Margaret Larkins-Pettigrew, MD emphasized the importance of regular OB-GYN care for expectant mothers to prevent poor health outcomes such as preterm birth or low birth weight. "On behalf of First Steps and Beyond," she said, "we’re thrilled to join the AHN Women’s Institute to unveil a mobile health unit that will provide critical services."
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), maternal mortality rates remain high in developed countries like the United States with Black women facing significantly higher risks compared to their white counterparts. In Allegheny County specifically, Black women experience even worse outcomes than national averages.
“By bringing a women’s mobile health clinic into diverse communities,” Klein-Patel concluded,“we’re honoring our responsibility as a healthcare system.”
For further details about the mobile clinic services contact obgynmobile@ahn.org.
Alerts Sign-up