According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than half the population lacks access to essential health care services, including those provided by roadside clinics in Africa. The burden of acquiring these essential services, as a result, currently drives more than 100 million people into poverty.

Established in 2006– initially in response to health care needs of migrant communities during the height of the AIDS epidemic–, local nonprofit known as North Star Alliance, has responded to this challenge with what they call Blue Blox Clinics, roadside clinics in Africa offering often-free, mobile health care to go.

The Economics of Mobile Health Clinics

According to Mobile Health Map, mobile health clinics offer high-quality care at a reduced cost compared to traditional health care delivery methods. Their data indicates that for every $1 invested in mobile health services, $12 is saved.

These projects aim to provide cost-efficient solutions that don’t rely on frequent, additional visits. Tactical, prevention-focused treatments from roadside clinics provide, on average, the equivalent of 65 years of perfect health, considering both the length and quality of life.

Upcycling to Innovate

Made from recycled shipping containers, North Star’s Blue Box clinics are strategically located along busy transportation routes in East and Southern Africa.

Specifically, the project has displayed a commitment to quality health care that extends beyond traditional health care settings, reaching individuals who may not have easy access to medical facilities due to their transient lifestyles or remote locations. With many patients residing along the Kenyan-Ugandan border, these roadside clinics in Africa accommodate difficulties that traveling and crossing borders present to keeping an account of extensive health information.

Roadside clinics in Africa provide an array of solutions via referrals, prevention, outpatient care and treatment, some of which include:

• Emergency medical care
• Basic primary health care and consultations
• Vaccinations and immunizations
• Health education
• Family planning services
• First aid training and community outreach programs
• Screening for common conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and HIV/AIDS

Success and Scaling Up

North Star currently operates 23 roadside clinics in 10 countries in Africa. In 2022, more than 50,000 truck drivers were reached through the program and more than 2 million individuals received care since the clinics’ inception.

Mobile health care clinics like these stand to provide treatment to predominantly mobile or low-income communities, at a necessarily and exorbitantly lower rate than traditional hospitals or health facilities.

Looking Forward

North Star’s roadside clinics in Africa serve as community anchors, fostering a sense of security and support among travelers and residents. By offering a range of services tailored to the diverse needs of the population, including vaccinations, consultations and basic medications, these clinics contribute significantly to promoting public health and safety along Africa’s roads.

Through tireless dedication and strategic placement, North Star’s roadside clinics serve as beacons of care, enhancing the overall health infrastructure and resilience of the communities they serve. The organization plans to implement more clinics in underserved areas to meet demands for health services.

Investments in health are investments in people and properly scaling up means to acquire vital health services is imperative to securing a future of healthy individuals.

– Bella Simokaitis
Photo: Unsplash