Dr. Joel A. Charles our Mobile Clinic Coordinator, head of Medecin Haitien Volontaires “MEDHAVOL” lead these traveling clinics twice a year in some of the most inaccessible section of Haiti. They usually see around 60 to 80 patients on a normal day, mostly young women for sexually transmitted infections, elderly women for chronic pain and hypertension, and young children with respiratory infections and Scabies.
Scabies are the most common illness in young children. A contagious skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, scabies is a symptom of unsanitary living conditions. It is especially common in parts of the city where access to water is limited, and sanitation facilities are inadequate.
“Through our mobile clinics, we provide primary health care along with health education, and refer patients with more complicated cases to other health structures,” said Nolce. “We also provide drinking water and medications. We are always looking at what additional assistance we can provide, but the needs are just so massive.”