CARLINVILLE AREA HOSPITAL RECIEVES ICAHN 2024 COMMUNITY AWARD FOR ‘HEALTHCARE ON WHEELS’

CARLINVILLE, IL—The Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network (ICAHN) announced its 2024 “Community Project” winner, Carlinville Area Hospital for its Healthcare on Wheels mobile medical clinic, at its Annual Conference held November 14 at the I-Hotel and Conference Center, Champaign. Jay Hodges accepted the award on behalf of the hospital.

The Community Award recognizes ICAHN member hospitals that have implemented a program that strengthened the health and well-being of their communities and builds a partnership with community organizations such as schools, elderly services, children’s groups, prevention groups, or faith-based organizations.  

In 2023, Carlinville Area Hospital & Clinics identified a significant need for healthcare services in Northern Macoupin County, particularly in Virden, IL. Recognizing that establishing a traditional brick-and-mortar facility involves extensive planning and construction time, the hospital opted for a more immediate solution by acquiring a two-room Mobile Medical Clinic.  

The mobile medical unit is a specialized vehicle designed to deliver healthcare services directly to communities that lack access to primary care. Outfitted with essential medical equipment, the unit operates as an urgent care clinic, providing a broad range of healthcare services in areas where residents might otherwise face barriers to obtaining care.  

The mobile medical unit plays a crucial role in bridging healthcare gaps by bringing services directly to those who need them most. By doing so, it not only addresses immediate health needs, but also contributes to long-term improvements in public health, reduces the burden on emergency services, and strengthens the overall healthcare infrastructure in underserved areas.  

To date, the mobile unit has served more than 2,100 patients, whom otherwise may have gone without medical attention. The 2,100 patients have come from 30 different towns, which has reduced transportation challenges, financial constraints, and long wait times that often prevent people from seeking care.  

Because of this project, Carlinville Area Hospital & Clinics have made the decision to establish a traditional brick-and-mortar facility in Virden, IL. The new facility will have 10 exam rooms for Primary Care, Specialty Care, Walk in, Lab, Xray and Therapy Services. The Healthcare on Wheels will make a permanent stop by opening this new Rural Health Clinic in Spring of 2025  

Located in Princeton, IL, ICAHN is a network of 60 small, rural hospitals dedicated to strengthening the operations of its member hospitals through collaboration. The organization is composed of Illinois hospitals who have earned critical access hospital designation by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and is recognized nationally for its work with rural healthcare, administering several state, federal, and private healthcare programs.