Long queues formed outside the Phelophepa Healthcare Train at Heidelberg Railway Station as residents seized the opportunity to access affordable healthcare services on their doorstep.

The internationally acclaimed Transnet Phelophepa Healthcare Train, often referred to as the Train of Hope, returned to Heidelberg on June 1.

It is already making a meaningful difference in the lives of local residents seeking medical assistance, screenings and healthcare advice.

Operated by the Transnet Foundation, the mobile healthcare facility provides a range of primary healthcare services, including dental treatment, eye care, general health screenings, counselling, and cancer and diabetes screening programmes.

Acting train manager Londeka Zulu said the programme was designed to bridge healthcare gaps by bringing professional medical services directly to communities.

“The Phelophepa Healthcare Train was established to ensure that quality healthcare reaches communities that may not always have easy access to medical services.

Our mission is to provide affordable healthcare while promoting healthy lifestyles and preventative care.

“Residents visiting the train have access to general health assessments, dental treatments, eye examinations, counselling services, diabetes screening and educational programmes, as well as cancer screening services. By bringing these services directly to communities, we hope to improve access to healthcare, encourage early diagnosis and treatment, and ultimately contribute to healthier and more empowered communities,” she said.

For many residents, the train’s arrival means access to healthcare services that would otherwise be difficult or costly to obtain.

Jeanne van der Merwe (45) said the initiative offers tremendous value to families struggling with rising healthcare costs.

“The services are affordable and accessible, which is important for many families. Having healthcare professionals available in our community means people can receive assistance without having to travel far or spend money they may not have. It is a service that benefits everyone,” she said.

Nomasonto Makhoba (59) said the train plays an important role in promoting preventative healthcare.

“Many people only seek medical attention when they are already very sick. Services like these encourage people to get checked early and learn more about their health. It helps communities become more aware and proactive about their well-being,” she said.

Noloyiso Mzileni (47) praised the professionalism of the healthcare teams and the quality of services available.

“The staff have been welcoming and professional, and the range of services available is impressive. From health screenings to counselling and eye care, people can access help that they might otherwise postpone because of financial or transport challenges,” she said.

The train offers dental procedures such as extractions, fillings and teeth cleaning for R10 per procedure, while children younger than 16 receive treatment free of charge.

Free vision screenings are available through the eye clinic, with prescription glasses costing R30 per pair and eye drops available for R5.

Residents can also access free general health screenings, counselling services, diabetes testing and education, as well as cancer screening services, including pap smears and breast and prostate screenings.

The Phelophepa Healthcare Train will remain in Heidelberg until June 5 before returning for a second visit from June 8 to June 12.

Services are available daily from 07:30 to 16:00.

Community members are encouraged to arrive early, as patients are assisted on a first-come, first-served basis and no appointments are required.

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