VCU’s health and wellness program expands to South Hill

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)'s mobile health and wellness program is expanding its services to South Hill in Mecklenburg County due to struggles accessing primary care and home health services.

Recent statistics from VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) indicated severe challenges for those trying to access health care in many rural communities -- and that includes Southside. Since 2013, they have provided services to Richmond and Tappahannock, and now, VCU has shared that it can expand operations thanks to a $4 million federal grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

The CMH's recent community assessment indicated that 45% of those surveyed have primary care access, while 41% are facing trouble with home health services.

"Many of the individuals we look forward to working with in South Hill might not otherwise have access to routine checkups or preventive care," said Martha Purvis, DNP, project coordinator and academic liaison from the School of Nursing. "With this program, we’re not just treating patients — we’re building relationships and empowering communities to take charge of their health."

As part of the Mobile Health and Wellness Program, CMH has partnered with two nurse practitioners who also teach at the VCU School of Nursing. According to a release from VCU Health, the two are now traveling to CMH’s Thomas W. Leggett Center to provide health care to needy residents.

"Expanding these key services to South Hill means increased access to essential health care for our community," said Sheldon Barr, president of VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital. "This initiative is an important step in ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to receive the quality care they come to expect from our health system." 

According to VCU, these services will include the following:

• On-site screening for blood pressure and diabetes
• Medication and care management
• Mental health screenings
• Managing transitions of care after emergency room or hospital visits
• Nutrition coaching, and smoking cessation support

“Our goal is to break down barriers to health care by bringing essential services directly to the communities that need them most. We are committed to improving access, promoting wellness, and fostering trust in the health care system,” said Jacqueline Daniel, DNP, RN, FNP, CNE, clinical assistant professor at the School of Nursing.

The South Hill clinic is open every Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Martha Purvis via phone at 804-389-0521 or via email at mhwp@vcu.edu.