MobileMOC and ROAD-MAP Initiatives for Better Health Lisa Beasley and Kristina Wick

In this episode, Dr. Lisa Beasley interviews Dr. Kristina Wick, who shares her non-traditional journey into nursing, her passion for gerontology, and the launch of the Mobile Health Unit at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga. She discusses the importance of interprofessional collaboration, the challenges of operating a mobile health unit in rural areas, and the impact of community partnerships on healthcare access for older adults. Dr. Wick emphasizes the value of experiential learning for students and the need for tailored programs to meet the diverse needs of the community.

Dr. Wick's journey into nursing was non-traditional, highlighting that there are many paths to a nursing career.
Her passion for gerontology stems from a close-knit family experience with older adults.
The Mobile Health Unit aims to address healthcare access in rural areas.
Interprofessional collaboration is key to providing comprehensive care.
Experiential learning for students enhances their understanding of community health needs.
Community partnerships are essential for sustainable healthcare programs.
The Mobile Health Unit serves as a model for addressing healthcare disparities.
Challenges include staffing, logistics, and adapting to different community needs.
Dr. Wick emphasizes the importance of understanding local resources and needs before launching programs.
The ultimate goal is to leave the community better off than before.