Carita - bringing mobile healthcare to rural areas

Abstract

This master thesis explores the design of a mobile healthcare service aimed at improving healthcare accessibility for elderly and rural populations. Focusing on individuals who face mobility challenges and limited access to essential services, this project envisions a solution that delivers healthcare directly to rural communities. Carita, a mobile healthcare space, operates within a rotating system designed to provide various essential services to underserved areas. Carita integrates a modular vehicle concept, autonomous driving, telemedicine, and human-centered design to offer a range of medical services, fostering well-being and restoring independence for those who are geographically or physically isolated. In collaboration with the German Aerospace Centers Institute for Vehicle Concepts, the project combines innovative mobility solutions with healthcare needs, enabling a seamless, flexible, and efficient approach to rural healthcare delivery. By prioritizing comfort, hygiene, and functionality, Carita aims to create a transformative space where healthcare is both accessible and empowering, ultimately supporting the autonomy and quality of life of individuals in rural settings.