Condom outreach promotes disease prevention
These were strategically placed at high traffic points in the community to ensure maximum visibility.
PREVENTION is better than cure.
This message was the driver of Wentworth Hospitals’ Gateway Clinic’s latest outreach. Twenty-one condom containers were recently installed and filled with condoms in Wentworth.
The containers, also known as condo-containers, were strategically placed at high traffic points in the community, such as taverns or bottle stores, car washes, at the taxi rank and tuck shops.
“Some containers were installed in Chamberlain Road which is a common area for sex workers and truck drivers. Most areas were identified by the community health workers (CHW) as well as myself, as a resident living in the area. Mostly, it was based on the need and high traffic areas,” said Sr Renete Roskruge.
“I personally visited some sites and community members were excited to receive this service. One bottle store worker was relieved as she said customers and community members ask her for condoms and she did not know where to get from. Now she is stress-free as I promised that I would personally ensure her condo-container is always replenished,” she added.
She said the aim of their outreach was to encourage safe sex practices and create awareness on HIV/AIDS prevention and reduction in the number of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
CHWs, the clinic ward-based outreach team (WBOT) and Sr Roskruge are the allocated custodians for each condo-container who will ensure that condoms are replenished timeously.
“The primary healthcare’s first strategy is the prevention of diseases and illnesses. Condoms are the single most important method of preventing diseases such as STI and HIV/AIDS. They also prevent unplanned or unwanted pregnancies. Prevention is better than cure!” she said.
For the replenishment of empty containers, call Sr Roskruge or 067-075-4163 or the outreach team leader, KK Maphumulo on 073-256-8301.
