Driving change in Nova Scotia: The lasting impact of Public Health Mobile Units beyond COVID-19.

Abstract

Setting: Amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, Nova Scotia faced significant gaps and barriers in access to testing, particularly in underserved communities and areas experiencing outbreaks. In the fall of 2020, the Public Health Mobile Units commenced as part of Nova Scotia's provincial emergency response.

Intervention: Implementation involved the procurement and development of 10 vans, equipment, staffing, and processes to deliver COVID-19 testing services across the province. The Public Health Mobile Unit composes a collaborative practice model functioning as a provincial team with a focus on geographic zones. These roles include Public Health Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Emergency Support Aides, Drivers, Secretaries with support from leadership, and health promoters.

Outcomes: Embracing an equity-based approach, Public Health Mobile Units offered testing in communities not otherwise easily accessed through existing Nova Scotia Health pathways, areas experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks, and priority groups that may be at risk of severe illness. The Public Health Mobile Unit (PHMU) work expanded to include supporting public health's COVID-19 response with immunization, community rapid testing, negative results, and navigating community to COVID-19 resources. Additionally, the rapid services and flexibility of the Public Health Mobile Units supported Nova Scotia during times of need in hurricanes, wildfires, and floods.

Implications: The successful evaluation and engagement highlighted the trust and confidence built with the community and partners throughout the pandemic response. Thus, enabling the Public Health Mobile Units to continue delivering preventative health services as the Public Health Mobile Unit has received permanent funding and has continued as a provincial public health program since the fall of 2024.