Story by Memory Chamisa
EPWORTH – MORE than 200 residents from Ward six in Epworth, including the elderly and vulnerable, received free medical treatment during a Presidential Medical Outreach Programme conducted in the area this Saturday.
The outreach, spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, offered a broad range of services including routine immunisations, hypertension screening, treatment of minor ailments, management of non-communicable diseases, and psychosocial support.
Many beneficiaries lauded the initiative, which has brought relief to a community grappling with limited access to affordable healthcare.
“I have gone through the test and I am satisfied with it. I underwent a hypertension screening and was given medication. I commend the process as it is well organised,” one resident said.
“I hope this type of outreach is extended to other communities. Medicines are expensive, and people are dying simply because they cannot afford them. Initiatives like this one will help many who are in desperate need,” added another beneficiary.
“I had been experiencing diarrhoea for three days, and since I couldn’t afford medical treatment, I resorted to home remedies. When I came here, they diagnosed me with dehydration and gave me proper medication. I am truly grateful.”
Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Douglas Mombeshora, who led the delegation, said the outreach was informed by a needs assessment conducted in the community, which highlighted a significant gap in access to healthcare.
“Medics outreach programmes bring healthcare services to communities, and they overcome barriers such as distance, cost, and lack of infrastructure, ensuring that even those in remote or marginalised areas can access necessary medical attention, which directly contributes to better health outcomes for individuals and the community as a whole.
“Though medical outreach could not address critical health issues, it was necessary, especially in communities without access to affordable and quality healthcare. During our needs assessment of the Epworth community, we were told a lot of the residents have medical issues, and because of how the time is, they are not able to go to a doctor or afford drugs. So we decided to come here and give them free medical attention,” he said.
Discovery Ambulance Services, one of the service providers, played a critical role in delivering healthcare to the residents. CEO Mr David Munowenyu highlighted the importance of early intervention.
“The Presidential Emergency outreach is a vital strategy for enhancing healthcare access and improving the well-being of communities, particularly those in underserved or hard-to-reach areas, by providing essential services, education, and support directly where people live. These initiatives address health disparities, promote preventive care, and strengthen local health systems, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and increased community resilience,” he said.
The government, through the Ministry of Health and Child Care, remains committed to promoting public health, improving wellness, and ensuring universal access to quality and affordable health services, especially in underserved areas such as Epworth.
