We had the privilege of partnering with Lions Club International to design and build a 40-foot trailer dedicated to serving underserved communities in the southwest United States. This spacious trailer features multiple lanes for eye exams, a waiting area, ample storage, and a display space for glasses, all of which enhance patient care.

To ensure the comfort of both service providers and patients, this trailer is equipped with three roof-mounted AC units and an interior furnace. We’ve thoughtfully added additional propane tanks in the attic at the front of the trailer, which guarantees a comfortable environment regardless of Arizona’s diverse weather, from the valleys to the mountains.

Designed with user accessibility in mind, the trailer includes two doors for easy entry and exit. A low-profile platform lift is situated next to the front door, allowing convenient access without taking up extra space inside the trailer; it neatly folds up alongside the door when not in use. While primarily serving as an exit, this door also facilitates entry for individuals who may need additional assistance.

Upon entering through the rear door, visitors find a self-intake area for patient registration, streamlining the process. This space includes a folding desk and an overhead shelf on the driver’s side, along with a nearby TV monitor for greetings and instructions. A door separates this intake area from the rest of the trailer.

Moving through the door, patients arrive at a comfortable waiting area. On the driver’s side, a bench seat provides a place to sit and wait, and the furnace is installed beneath it. Overhead storage cabinets keep additional supplies organized. On the passenger side, two stacked fridges serve to store water and employee lunches for long outings, while adjacent to them is a counter with a small drawer unit to store and display eyeglasses when the trailer is in operation.

As we progress toward the front of the trailer, a hallway leads to the first eye exam lane on the driver’s side. This room features a counter for paperwork, with overhead storage, and an eye exam chair oriented to face the front of the vehicle. Due to space constraints, the room is smaller than typical, but a monitor mounted behind the chair allows for precise scaling of eye charts as the patient views them in a mirror.

At the front of the trailer, there is a second room that houses another eye exam lane. Here, the chair faces the driver’s side as well, and the same monitor and mirror setup are installed. This room also includes a counter and overhead storage mounted on the wall. Additionally, open access to the attic space and electrical cabinet is provided from this front exam lane, allowing for extra storage covered by a curtain when exams are in session.