POLOKWANE – The Limpopo Independent Practitioners Association (Lipa) celebrated a significant milestone last Tuesday with the unveiling of a newly renovated waiting room dedicated to patients battling cancer.

Representing 123 medical practices across Limpopo, Lipa embarked on this initiative to enhance the patient experience in oncology care.

The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego, hospital management, oncology staff and Lipa board members.

Dr Putswana Senoamadi, the secretary general of Lipa, expressed his heartfelt sentiments during the occasion, noting that this moment has been a long time coming and that he is overjoyed to witness its realisation.

He emphasised that part of Lipa’s mission is rooted in community enrichment and service, highlighting the strong support received when they proposed the renovation project.

The gathering featured a high-profile delegation, including Pietersburg Provincial Hospital CEO, Phillip Kruger, who conveyed his profound gratitude for the contributions made. He noted that the ultimate beneficiaries of this gesture are patients, who will going forth enjoy a more comfortable environment.

Dr Francis Ooko, the head of the oncology department, said the donation is significant, considering how many patients travel great distances to seek care.

“Often arriving early in the morning, these patients previously lacked a comfortable place to wait.”

He expressed appreciation for the upgrade, stating that a more inviting waiting area will undoubtedly make their challenging experiences somewhat more manageable.

Ooko also spoke about the need for continued support and donations to the oncology department from external entities.

The speeches were followed by a ceremonial ribbon-cutting ceremony to inaugurate the waiting room.

Lipa chairperson Dr Mabowa Makhomisane formally handed over the renovated space to Mashego.

“It does not sit well with us as an organisation to experience the lavish waiting areas of private hospitals catering to merely 16% of the population, while over 80% lack access to decent facilities.”

While he added that it’s easy to criticise government efforts, Makhomisane asserted that the private sector holds substantial potential to make a difference.

“As an organisation, Lipa is committed to consistently raising funds through partnerships, ensuring they give back to the community,” he concluded.

He also said that this renovation was merely a starting point, hinting at even more ambitious plans in the pipeline. Makhomisane reassured Mashego that Lipa is equally dedicated to enhancing healthcare quality throughout the province, both in public and private sectors.

“We want to take this moment to say thank you to Lipa’s partners. The role played by private laboratories and multinational pharmaceutical companies like Cipla, who have significantly contributed to advancing continuous professional development in the region, is important.”

Mashego said she was proud to be able to collaborate with organisations such as Lipa, and warmly accepted the donation on behalf of the department.