Hundreds of patients have praised the Transnet Phelophepa Healthcare Train following its successful visit to the Vaal Triangle, which ends on September 4.

Scores of patients were seen at the Vereeniging Train Station waiting in line to receive essential health services from the popular Transnet Phelophepa Healthcare Train set to depart on Friday.

Ster North arrived at the station on August 26 to find patients from as far as Sasolburg and Orange Farms sleeping on the pavement Speaking to the publication, patients explained that sleeping outside was a small price to pay to avoid long local waiting lists.

“ We are here for the eye clinic; sleeping here is a small price to pay because you get your glasses immediately, rather than waiting for months for glasses at a local health facility,” one patient said.

Although staff advised people not to sleep at the station, patients chose to stay because demand for the services remains extremely high.

Dr Paballo Mokwana, the dental clinic manager and acting train manager, confirmed that the train received a massive influx of visitors. She said that the eye clinic is the most popular service, closely followed by dental care.

While Dr Mokwana thanked everyone for their good behaviour and praised the friendly atmosphere, she strongly urged patients not to sleep on the pavement because the train lacks the facilities to accommodate them overnight.

“Another challenge is the fact that some of the patients are elderly and on chronic medication. We urge them to bring their medication, especially if they know that they are going to spend a lot of time here,” Mokwana said.

The Phelophepa Healthcare Train, popularly known as the train of hope, is a fully equipped mobile medical clinic operating across South Africa’s railway network to bring affordable healthcare to remote and rural communities.