The Mobile Health Unit (MHU) initiative aims to achieve universal health coverage by ensuring equitable access to quality primary healthcare services for vulnerable populations in rural and tribal regions. Operated by Deepak Foundation, the initiative focuses on promotive, preventive, and curative healthcare while significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenditure.
Currently, 18 MHUs are operational across the districts of Bharuch, Chhota Udepur, and Vadodara in Gujarat, and Palghar, Raigad, and Pune in Maharashtra. These units deliver a wide range of services including daily outpatient consultations (OPDs), adolescent anaemia management, and underweight child programs. In the financial year 2024–25, a total of 2,54,448 OPD consultations were conducted, benefitting 3,40,862 individuals.
MHUs provide doorstep primary healthcare, making services more accessible. They emphasize health promotion through education, awareness sessions, and counselling on topics such as anaemia, nutrition, hygiene, and disease prevention. Distribution of medicines and essential diagnostics—like Blood pressure checks, Random blood sugar tests, and haemoglobin levels—ensure early detection and timely interventions.
The Adolescent Anemia Program tracks and follows up with each patient to ensure regular medication, leading to effective recovery. In FY 2024–25, 16,064 adolescents were screened for anaemia, and 2,686 of them were restored to normal health. Similarly, the Underweight Program monitors children under the age of five for signs of malnutrition. Families receive counselling on proper diet and nutrition. During FY 2024–25, 13,566 children were screened, of which 1,379 showed improved nutritional status.
By offering referral services for specialized care, MHUs act as vital links in the healthcare delivery chain. The holistic, community-centred approach of MHU has made a significant impact on the health and well-being of underserved communities, reinforcing the importance of preventive healthcare and access at the grassroots level.