In an effort to engage with the community, an informative annual open day was held at Themba Regional Hospital on Friday November 3.The aim was to engage the communities about the healthcare services mandated to be provided by the health facility to the people, and for the patients to get the opportunity to share their experiences in the hospital.

During the event, various stalls provided info on healthcare services, such as blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes testing, sexual health checks and advice as well as tips on hand hygiene and infection control. Specialty care such as physiotherapy, pharmacy, emergency medicine, primary healthcare, maternity and learning and development programmes were also available.

ALSO READ: Guests enjoys annual mental health seminar in Mbombela

The MEC for health, Sasekani Manzini, said she noted down the challenges raised by the community members and commended the health workers for the compliments received.

“As government, our main duties are to provide adequate services to the people. Be assured that we are working towards improving the status quo regarding the delivering of healthcare services, which includes improving access to healthcare services for everyone regardless their socio-economic background. This can only be realised through the National Health Insurance that aims to bring universal health coverage for all. Visit our clinics, for they have well-trained health professionals who will assist with early diagnosis and treatment of illnesses, so that more lives could be saved,” she said.

The hospital’s CEO, Thembi Matsinhe, said she was pleased to host the communities at such an important informative event.

“The community is welcome to engage with us about the hospital’s services and health-related issues. This will assist the hospital to curb whatever challenges and improve its performance in providing adequate healthcare services to the people of KaBokweni and surrounds.”

ALSO READ: Premier motivates Matsulu Grade 12s for exams

Matsinhe said people usually visit the hospital in times of crisis, and the open day provides them with an opportunity to meet the public when they are well.

“This is so that we can promote healthy living and showcase our work with the aim to educate, engage and to promote good health and give a positive feedback to the community. Themba Regional Hospital is roughly servicing 22 villages around KaBokweni, with 18 clinics referring their clients to the hospital for further medical examination and treatment, whenever medical specialised healthcare services are required,” she said.