Bulawayo residents receive free medical services
Story by Yolanda Moyo
A call has been made for players in the health sector to complement government efforts in providing quality affordable health care services to the public.
The call was made during a free medical health camp and the official opening of a clinic by a local financial services group in Bulawayo this Saturday.
The two-day free medical health camp was aimed at offering one-stop health services to residents in Bulawayo, who gladly welcomed the initiative.
One of the residents said, “I am so grateful for this free medical camp. I have been struggling to afford medication for my blood pressure, and this camp has been a lifesaver. I was able to see a doctor, get my blood pressure checked, and receive medication, all for free. This is a huge relief for me and my family.”
Another added, “This is a wonderful initiative. I am retired and my pension is not enough to cover my medical expenses. I was able to get a free eye test.”
First Mutual Health general manager, Mr Wellington Madya said they are working with the government to improve the quality and affordability of healthcare services offered at public hospitals, with Harare Hospital being the first public hospital to benefit from the partnership.
“The clinic we are opening today is a one-stop clinic where a patient can get kprimary health services under one roof. We want to roll out these services at various primary healthcare clinics in Zimbabwe. We are starting working with the government and starting with Sally Mugabe Hospital in offering major facelifts to ensure that citizens have access to quality affordable health care services.”
“The programme is expected to significantly improve the quality and affordability of healthcare services offered at public hospitals. This will not only benefit the immediate patients, but also strengthen the overall healthcare system in Zimbabwe. Government has several infrastructures, and we are coming in to bring new life to those places and we looking at going into remote areas working with the government to improve service provision in those areas,” he said.
Public-private partnerships in the health sector continue to demonstrate the potential for positive change when parties work together with a shared vision for a healthier society.
