Dr. Angel Coaston, founding dean of Pepperdine University’s School of Nursing, published the school’s first research paper, according to an April 10 announcement from the university. Coaston’s study focused on the impact of mobile health clinics on managing chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension among underserved populations.
The topic is important because many Americans lack access to traditional healthcare due to financial hardship or homelessness. Coaston’s work highlights how mobile clinics can help address these gaps by providing free medical services directly in communities where they are needed most.
Coaston drew from her experience as CEO and clinic administrator at the Well of Healing Mobile Health Clinic in Fontana, California. Over two years, her study followed patients visiting these clinics and found a positive link between regular visits and improved management of hypertension. However, she noted that for diabetes control, additional support beyond medical visits—such as access to healthy food—is necessary.
“Building a new school while continuing to contribute to scholarship that advances access to care and population health is both a privilege and a responsibility,” said Coaston. “I hope for this new research to set an example to our School of Nursing students on how to integrate science with care.”
Her research surveyed 411 adult patients at the clinic; among regular users, many suffered from either Type 2 diabetes or hypertension. The findings showed that removing barriers like cost led more people without insurance or stable housing to receive consistent care. “Access to healthcare is an important determinant for overall health,” said Coaston. “These modifiable barriers…can lead to unmet health needs…But with mobile clinics, we’ve taken away these barriers.”
Coaston emphasized holistic care: each patient received attention not only for their physical needs but also spiritual support when desired. She shared stories illustrating how free access changed lives—including one patient who regained her health and was able then “to dream again.” As she leads Pepperdine’s nursing program, Coaston encourages students “to pursue research and scholarship in emerging areas,” believing they “can make an impact now.”
