Carroll College Nursing Mobile Health Unit Makes Inaugural Trip to Augusta Rodeo

HELENA, MT – Carroll College’s new Nursing Mobile Health Unit hit the road for its first community outreach event at the Augusta Rodeo on June 29, bringing preventive care and health education directly to rodeo attendees.

Nursing faculty Maria Brosnan, MSN, APRN, ACNP-BC, FNP-BC, CNE, CHSE, and Janet Johnson, MSN, RN, CNE, along with Accelerated Nursing student Julia Devine, staffed the unit, offering free blood pressure checks, education about dehydration, and water to participants. The visit marked the official debut of the unit, which is designed to expand access to health services in Montana’s rural and underserved communities.

“The Carroll College Nursing Department’s new Mobile Health Unit had a successful debut at the local Augusta rodeo, where we offered free blood pressure screenings, water, and education on recognizing signs of dehydration,” said Associate Professor Maria Brosnan. “This inaugural outreach event marked a meaningful step in expanding community-based health promotion and patient education. We provided hands-on support, fostering engagement and awareness among rodeo-goers. The Mobile Health Unit initiative reflects the department’s commitment to accessible, preventive care and providing real-world student learning experiences. It’s just the beginning of many meaningful connections to come.” Julia Devine, an Accelerated Nursing student who volunteered at the event, shared, “Volunteering at the Augusta rodeo with Carroll's new Mobile Health Unit was a rewarding experience and a powerful reminder of the impact of outreach, especially in rural areas where access to care is limited. I was grateful to connect with community members and promote wellness alongside Professors Brosnan and Johnson. Bringing healthcare directly to underserved areas like Augusta reinforces the vital role nurses play in advancing health literacy and equity, and I'm excited to see how the Mobile Health Unit continues to serve Montana's communities."

The Mobile Health Unit is a fully equipped, towable trailer designed to deliver health screenings, education, and wellness support at events across Montana. Its launch was made possible through a generous estate gift and ongoing support from Benefis Health System.

For more information about Carroll College’s Nursing program and the Mobile Health Unit, visit carroll.edu/nursing.

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