Access to dermatologic care is a challenge for many underserved populations, but it doesn’t have to be. Dr. Dustin Portela, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Treasure Valley Dermatology, has taken his expertise on the road—literally. With a fully equipped 39-foot RV transformed into a state-of-the-art dermatology clinic, Dr. Portela is committed to bringing high-quality skin care to those who need it most.
Dr. Portela’s mobile clinic is designed to provide free dermatology care to underserved communities, including individuals without health insurance. With two fully functional exam rooms, the clinic offers comprehensive skin care services, including:
Since launching the project, Dr. Portela and his team have hosted three community skin cancer screening events and three dermatology care days for uninsured patients. As this initiative continues to grow, we aim to expand our reach and provide care to even more individuals in need.
The idea for this mobile clinic started years ago when Dr. Portela was a medical student at Des Moines University. As a member of the Homeless Community Outreach Club, he participated in initiatives providing clean water, socks, hot coffee, and medical care to those in need. The experience of working alongside medical professionals in a mobile clinic setting solidified his commitment to bringing healthcare directly to underserved communities. Now, years later, that vision has become a reality.
In addition to providing hands-on care, the mobile clinic project serves another important purpose—education. Through engaging social media content created during clinic outings, Dr. Portela spreads awareness about skin health, early skin cancer detection, and essential dermatologic care. By leveraging digital platforms, he extends his impact beyond the patients seen in person, reaching a broader audience in need of trustworthy skin health information.
The mobile clinic is made possible through generous support from Frontier Credit Union, whose sponsorship has played a crucial role in bringing this initiative to life. Their commitment to community health helps ensure that more individuals receive the dermatologic care they deserve.
To see Dr. Portela and the mobile clinic in action, check out our recent feature on Channel 7 News: https://youtu.be/F6gTviOhQ8M?si=exNGcXNgvqE_RRxT
Together, we’re making dermatologic care more accessible, compassionate, and community-driven.
.png)
.png)
