A new Alberta Health Services mobile health van is up and running in north zone providing residents with a variety of services, information, and resources.

The van, also known as ‘Health on the Move’, is able to offer immunizations, provide cancer screenings for oral, prostate, and cervical, oral health assessments for children and vulnerable people and more.

“In launching the van, we’re now able to reach more residents in rural and remote areas with the health services and care that they need,” said Jennifer Splaine, Area Manager, Population and Public Health, Fort McMurray, in a release.

Suncor Energy also played a part in getting the van operational after they donated $110,000 to the Northern Lights Health Foundation.

It’s been on the roads since June, first providing services in Janvier and Conklin. Afterward, it traveled to Paddle Prairie where it provided mental health supports for residents re-entering the community after being evacuated due to a nearby wildfire.

The van can be booked by any North Zone AHS department. It’s already outfitted with an examination bed, stool, desk area, and cabinets.

“We’re eager to see the positive impacts the mobile health unit will have in the North Zone, particularly in being able to offer increased access to excellent healthcare services for residents,” said Cindy Amerongen, NLHF Executive Director.

“This wouldn’t be possible without the generous and thoughtful donation from the Suncor Energy Foundation. We thank them once again for supporting healthcare in the region.”