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CHARLOTTE, N.C. Un- and underinsured families across Charlotte can breathe a sigh of relief this winter knowing that they won't have to rely on the Emergency Department to address their child's minor health care needs. After almost two years of planning, the Presbyterian Hospital Community Care Cruiser a 40-foot doctor's office on wheels - is ready to hit the road.

The Cruiser, led by a medical director and staffed by a pediatric nurse practitioner, registered nurses and a social worker, boasts two private clinic rooms, a welcome desk and an interactive educational area. The brightly colored vehicle will be hard to miss as it drives across town to visit identified communities in need to provide primary and preventive care to youth ages 0-17. Pediatric services include:

"It is proven that the number one barrier to health care is lack of access," said Sharon Summer, the Cruiser's director. "The Presbyterian Hospital Community Care Cruiser is knocking down that barrier by going straight to the communities in need to ensure quality care is accessible to all youth as they grow."

The Cruiser has partnered with eight places of worship throughout Mecklenburg County that will serve as host facilities during the regularly scheduled site visits. Each patient is guaranteed to have a safe place to wait and complete privacy during his or her clinic visit.

To celebrate the Presbyterian Hospital Community Care Cruiser's November 27 launch, a community unveiling is scheduled for Monday, November 19, at 1:30 p.m. at Nations Ford Community Church (5901 Nations Ford Rd). Leaders from Presbyterian and the community will speak about the Cruiser's impact, and media tours will be offered after the ceremony.