Lyttelton senior citizens happy to be put first at local clinic
The metro's health department recently launched a programme to ensure that senior citizens at all clinics around the city receive priority attention and don't have to wait long in queues.
Elderly citizens have been welcomed with open arms at Lyttelton Clinic after a newly launched programme was initiated by the Tshwane metro.
The programme ensures that senior citizens at all clinics around the city receive priority attention, eliminating the long queues that have often been a source of frustration.
Among those benefiting from this initiative are Nomsa Malinga (72) and James Bhengu (68), who both visit the clinic regularly.
Malinga shared how she used to dread going to the clinic because of the long lines.
“I remember many times I would arrive and see dozens of people ahead of me, waiting for hours just to be seen by a doctor or to collect my medication.
“It was exhausting, both physically and mentally.”
She said knowing she will be attended to without the long wait is a huge relief.
She explained it feels like they [metro] finally recognise the challenges that senior citizens face.
“I feel seen, and I am happy that I can now plan my visits with less anxiety, and I appreciate the effort put into this initiative.”
Bhengu said this programme is a blessing for elders.
He said for years, senior citizens have given so much to their families and communities, and now it’s time that they get the respect and care that they deserve.
“I often felt invisible in the long queues, surrounded by younger individuals who seemed to get help faster.”
Bhengu said he hopes he will finally be able to feel acknowledged.
“It’s comforting to know that there are people who care enough to make our lives easier.
“I appreciate the health officials for this change and hope it continues to improve,” he said.
MMC of Health Tshegofatso Mashabela recently visited the clinic and shared her enthusiasm for the initiative.
“As the city, we hold our senior citizens in the highest regard and prioritise their health and well-being above all else.”
She explained that this programme aims to give older residents the care they deserve, particularly regarding their chronic medication needs.
“Gone are the days when our beloved elders had to endure long hours of waiting in queues to access their essential medications and consultations,” she said.
“We recognise the invaluable contributions our senior citizens have made to our community and society as a whole, and it is only fitting that we reciprocate their dedication with the utmost respect and efficiency in healthcare services.”
Mashabela noted that senior citizens will no longer have to contend with the inconvenience of queuing for their chronic medication and consultations.
“We are committed to streamlining the process and ensuring that their needs are met promptly and without any unnecessary delays.”
She said through this initiative, the metro aims to create a seamless and dignified healthcare experience for elders, which reflects the respect and gratitude held for them.
“By offering them first preference for clinic visits, the municipality is honouring their lifetime of contributions and reaffirming its commitment to serving them with compassion and respect.”
She urged all elders in their communities to take advantage of this new service offering and to visit clinics around the city without hesitation or worry.
“Our dedicated healthcare professionals are ready and eager to provide the highest quality care and support to our elders, ensuring that they receive the attention and assistance they require.”
Ward Councillor David Farquharson told Rekord potential issues that might arise were discussed during a recent clinic meeting on March 19.
He acknowledged the positive impact of the programme, but raised concerns about potential issues, particularly regarding individuals who might skip ahead in line.
“These are the individuals who ruin the smooth sailing of this programme, and the clinic serves a lot of people in the area,” he said.
Farquharson highlighted that some patients on chronic medication do not make appointments, leading to irregular visits that disrupt the flow of the programme.
However, he remains optimistic about the changes.
“I am happy about the initiative, as it aims to make the lives of elderly citizens better.”
He assured the community that queue managers would be present to enforce the programme’s effectiveness and prevent any line-skipping.
Farquharson also said that improvements made to the clinic’s facilities a while back will also assist those waiting in line.
“The clinic has seating in the outside area; before, the elderly would complain about having to stand for long hours before getting help.”
He added that the upgraded facilities are for the comfort and assistance of all visitors.
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