Mobile Unit for Healthcare Resources Ribbon Cutting

The Eye Institute (TEI) recently announced the ribbon cutting of the new and improved mobile healthcare unit on Wednesday, June 26. The  Mobile Unit for Healthcare Resources, has been named after Cathie Muhr, one of the biggest donors, who contributed $100,000 to keep the legacy going of helping underserved communities within the Greater Philadelphia area . The MUHR Mobile will be added to the Big Red Bus that has historically provided care to the community and was originally funded by the National Eye Institute, through the Vision in Preschoolers Study.

 This new and improved mobile unit has additional capabilities of more optimized space which creates an easier workflow, with a generator and updated electrical systems allowing for the addition of hearing and speech-language screenings and exams alongside the continuation of vision screenings and exams.

 “The new mobile unit will be used to carry on with our mission to provide comprehensive eye care to those in the  Philadelphia region who are underserved,” said Dr. Brandy Scombordi, director of the School Vision Programs. “We are trying to bridge the gap of health inequity by bringing health care to the people who need it the most within their own neighborhoods where they may feel the safest.”

In the 2023-2024 school year alone, vision screenings were provided to 8,511 students, and a total of 1,339 were given comprehensive exams. This allowed for the distribution of 2,324 eyeglasses.The first of many community outreach events will provide services to Drexel University’s Dornsife Center for Neighborhood Partnerships, Family Health Services, Dr. Ala Stanford’s Center for Health Equity in a joint event with the National Optometric Association and VSP Vision Care in Philadelphia, and Community Volunteers in Medicine event in West Chester.  

All clinical facilities of Salus at Drexel University, including The Eye Institute, Pennsylvania Ear Institute and Speech-Language Institute, participates in community based activities. To request involvement in your event, please use this form.