Breaking Barriers: Mobile Clinic Joins Cyprus Pride 2025 for Inclusive Healthcare

Last Saturday, 31 May 2025, the Medical School’s Mobile Clinic took part in Cyprus Pride 2025, partnering with the AIDS Solidarity Movement’s Cy Checkpoint to provide free, anonymous and rapid HIV and STI testing. Over 120 rapid tests were conducted, together with peer-counselling on adopting safer sexual practices.

‘Participating in the Cyprus Pride was a powerful reminder of why we do this work, bringing healthcare directly to those who need it most’, said Marwan Louay Shafie, MD – Year 2 student. ‘It gave me the chance to put into practice the communication skills I’ve been developing throughout my second year of medical school, in a setting that really mattered. Speaking with people, answering their questions, and guiding them through the process felt natural and purposeful. It reminded me how important it is to be approachable and reassuring, especially when dealing with sensitive health topics’.

The team’s dedication to breaking down barriers in sexual health reflects the Mobile Clinic’s mission, which is providing health services without stigma. These expeditions allow students to develop crucial clinical and communication skills, while making a real difference.

‘One thing that made an impression on me was the diversity within our community and how different aspects of identity intersect. Meeting people from various backgrounds, faiths, and abilities reinforced how essential it is to understand each person’s unique circumstances. By understanding and respecting the diverse spectrum of human experiences, a physician can provide more comprehensive care, leading to improved patient health outcomes, satisfaction, and trust’ said Filippos Panagiotis Vakirtzis, MD – Year 4 student. ‘It’s an opportunity to broaden your horizons, while helping people on both an individual and a population-wide level’.

Ensuring visitors felt supported and informed about the importance of regular health checks was one of the main goals of this expedition. Medical students took sexual health history and attended the community testing process, after obtaining consent from those seeking care.

‘Before I began assisting with data collection and form-filling, I was especially interested in learning about the barriers that people face in accessing healthcare. I want to ensure that, as a future healthcare professional, I provide the best possible care to everyone, regardless of their background’, said Tanadel Tarbouch, MD – Year 2 student. ‘To me, delivering quality care reflects who we are as professionals and is ultimately about respecting the dignity of every person’.

The Mobile Clinic remains committed to reducing barriers to testing and access to health services, helping build a more informed and healthier society. This is a unique chance for our medical students to grow as future doctors and serve the community, as well as to broaden their horizons.

‘What made the experience even more meaningful was the opportunity to give back. It felt good to be part of something that promotes awareness, breaks down stigma, and supports public health. I’m proud to have played a role in it and grateful for the experience. It reinforced why I chose this path and made me even more excited for what’s ahead’, said Marwan.

During this academic year, the Mobile Clinic organised a total of twelve expeditions across the island. From Farmakas, Omodos and Agros, to Pyrga, Lefkara, Ormidia and Ferikoudi villages, and several expeditions in the city of Nicosia and on campus, the Mobile Clinic addressed vital health needs through screenings for a variety of conditions.

The first ever paediatric corner was implemented in this year’s schedule of expeditions, while three expeditions offered electrocardiograms (ECGs), three more offered HIV/STI screening, and one offered ophthalmological tests. Furthermore, body mass index(BMI), blood pressure and glucose measurements were offered in eight expeditions. In one of these expeditions, spirometry tests were re-introduced, as they were stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Mobile Clinic operation brought together more than 220 students, twelve supervising physicians and five UNIC Health staff members, enabling the completion of over 1,950 tests.