POLOKWANE – Residents will have access to a range of affordable and free healthcare services when the Transnet Foundation’s Phelophepa Healthcare Train arrives in Polokwane this month.

The mobile healthcare facility will be stationed at Polokwane Railway Station from June 15-19 and again from June 22-26, operating weekdays between 07:30 and 16:00.

The healthcare train, often referred to as a “clinic on rails”, provides primary healthcare services to communities with limited access to medical care.

Services available include free general health screenings, dental care, eye care, counselling services, as well as cancer and diabetes education and screening.

Dental screenings and oral health education will be offered free of charge, while procedures such as tooth extractions, fillings and cleanings will cost R10 each. All dental procedures for children aged 16 years and younger will be provided free of charge.

The eye clinic will offer free vision screenings, with prescription glasses available at R30 per pair and eye drops at R5. Eye clinic services do not include operations or bifocal lenses.

Residents will also be able to access free counselling services from qualified professionals, while screening and education services related to diabetes and cancer will be available at no cost.

Free pap smears, prostate screenings and breast screenings will also be offered.

The train operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with no appointments required. Patients are encouraged to arrive early and bring their clinic cards. Parents or guardians must accompany minor children.