Health MMC addresses gender imbalances in the health sector
MMC Rina Marx said the World Health Organization has identified the health of women and girls as a particular concern.
“A lot still needs to be done to ensure equitable access to healthcare for women and children,” the Tshwane MMC for health Rina Marx recently said.
The MMC said she has made it a priority to improve the ability of the primary healthcare clinics to deliver effective services to women and children.
“Women and children are the most affected by communicable diseases. Therefore, improving the health of women, children, and teenagers is among the strategic priorities of the health department for this financial year.
“We will also prioritise addressing teenage pregnancy,” Marx added.
She said the City will ensure continuous availability and access to quality medicines and pharmaceutical services, as well as awareness and treatment of chronic diseases that form a critical part of the department’s focus.
Marx said the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified the health of women and girls as of particular concern, because these vulnerable groups are disadvantaged by discrimination that is rooted in socio-cultural factors.
“These factors include the potential or actual experience of physical, sexual and emotional violence. This is not a uniquely South African phenomenon, but a global challenge,” she said.
The metro’s health department encouraged the women of Tshwane to use the following services and facilities available to them:
– HIV/Aids, all Tshwane fixed clinics provide a 100% prevention of mother-to-child-transmission service.
– Cervical cancer screening: Cancer of the cervix is the most common gynaecological cancer in South Africa. The City acknowledges that there was a notable uptick in cervical cancer screening from July 2021 to June 2022. This trend needs to continue in order to reduce the rate of this form of cancer.
– Early antenatal care in order to improve overall maternal health and reduce maternal mortality.
– Family planning: women are encouraged to take advantage of the full spectrum of reproductive health services available to them.
“I would like to thank the women on the front lines of the healthcare sector who often perform their duties under difficult circumstances. Your dedication and service contribute to uplifting the health of our nation,” said Marx.
“Lastly, let me echo the words of former President Nelson Mandela, who said, on August 9, 1996: ‘Equal power and glory to the women of South Africa’.”
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