THE high demand for affordable healthcare has drawn hundreds of patients to the Transnet Healthcare train in Empangeni.
The train, known as Phelophepa 1, is in Empangeni this week and next (only available during weekdays).
The health train provides primary healthcare services to thousands of patients countrywide, offering services such as eye and dental care, among others.
Hundreds of people queued outside the various clinics in Empangeni on Monday.
Some applauded the affordable healthcare services they receive at the train.
‘This is a great initiative and we get a lot of help from the train because most of us can’t afford to get proper medical care,’ Sizakele Mnguni said.
However, many were angered that despite having waited in line since Sunday night, they were not going to receive help the next day owing to the number of people that arrived.
‘I was here since 6pm on Sunday, queuing on behalf of my mother who is not able to come and stand in line all day for herself. I haven’t eaten all day because I’m afraid if I leave this spot, someone else might take it and my mom won’t be able to get help,’ a patient who did not want to be named said.
Another elderly patient there for an eye test, said they have resorted to spending the night at the docking station in order to receive medical care.
‘We have travelled from far, we can’t go back without receiving the help we need,’ the patient said.
Some patients waited in line with blankets and bags stacked near them, prepared to spend the night at the station should they not be assisted on the day.
Train Manager Anna Mokwena on Monday said they set daily targets for the number of patients they see every day.
“Each clinic has a target and stickers will be issued to patients upon arrival at the station. Patients who are unable to be helped on that day, will be assisted on another day,’ Mokwena said.
She urged people to be patient because they want to give them quality care.
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