Mobile health unit image via Fresno State

Rosa Barajas, a longtime volunteer with Saint Agnes Holy Cross Center for Women, was alarmed to discover that she had abnormally high blood pressure during a recent visit to the Fresno State Community Health Mobile Unit, parked just outside the gates of the center.

While alarmed, Barajas is able to manage the situation, and she attributes the discovery to the free screenings that can be done throughout Fresno County through the mobile health unit.

“It’s important for these individuals to understand that even if they don’t have access to medical care, we can still refer them to surrounding clinics that will help them obtain medication even if they don’t have insurance,” said Melisa Rotondi, a nursing student from Fresno State.

Now, even more clients will be able to benefit from services like this, and more Fresno State students will gain valuable clinical skills, thanks to a $250,000 gift from Saint Agnes Medical Center. The gift will allow the mobile unit to continue serving residents in areas within the county, including places like Holy Cross for Women.

Nearly 600 students have volunteered at the mobile unity, gaining important service learning and clinical learning opportunities along the way. This has resulted in nearly 200,000 volunteer hours from students in nursing dietetics, athletic training, physical therapy, public health and other majors.