The Cleveland VA mobile health clinic caters to homeless vets

CLEVELAND – Brent Nobles was in a good mood as he approached his doctor’s appointment.

He will go to his checkup at the new mobile medical unit of the new Cleveland VA Medical Center.

Nobles is an Air Force veteran and is homeless. He is at the rehabilitation center where he is receiving treatment.

Being without a car makes things even more complicated for him.

“I have a permit, but I don’t drive, no car,” Nobles said.

The mobile health clinic, a large RV-style vehicle, travels with an RN, nurse, physician and social worker.

It allows veterans like Nobles to get their regular checkups without some of the obstacles.

“I don’t have to figure out a ride, pay a cab, pay someone to give me a ride,” he said.

Nobles said she struggles with high blood pressure, and the clinic allows her to stay on top of things. But the clinic is not just for basic checks.

She can refer him to mental health services or specialists as appropriate.

Nobles said he appreciates not having to take public transportation to get to his meeting.

“He feels safe. I don’t have to worry about dealing with peoples,” he said.

Nobles recently graduated from Stella Maris, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility where he stayed. Now, he is looking for his own apartment.

“Things are good,” he said

Veterans struggling with homelessness, addiction disorders or related difficulties can contact a special team at the Cleveland VA at 216-391-0264 Ext. 48601.