CLEVELAND — Brent Nobles was in a good mood when he walked up to his doctor’s appointment.

He’s going to his check- up at the new Cleveland VA Medical Center’s mobile health unit.

Nobles is an Air Force veteran and is unhoused. He’s staying at the rehabilitation center where he receives treatment.

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

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

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

It allows veterans like Nobles to have his regular checkups without some of the hurdles.

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

Nobles said he struggles with high blood pressure and the clinic allows him to stay on top of that. But the clinic isn’t just for basic checkups. 

It can refer him to mental health services or specialists as needed.

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

“It 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’s been staying. Now, he’s looking for his own apartment.

“Things are looking up,” he said

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