Crucial health services for Jozini communities
Rural communities will no longer need to travel far for primary health care
A STATE-OF-THE-ART health facility in Jozini serving 110 000 people from surrounding areas who would otherwise have no access to such medical care, was last week opened by the KZN Department of Health.
A R241-million project, the oThobothini Community Health Centre in Msiyani will also serve as a referral facility for 18 clinics in the region.
The long-awaited establishment of such a facility ensures residents no longer need to journey 56km to Bethesda Hospital or 54km to Mosvold Hospital for hospitalisation and treatment.
Services including consulting rooms, TB management, dentistry, X-rays, maternity services, a pharmacy and an emergency medical service base are offered at the facility.
Basic procedures such as male medical circumcision, rehabilitation and nutrition services, and a mortuary are also available.
The centre operates 24-hours a day and is equipped with a generator in case of power outages.
Four medical officers and three community service medical officers are based at the centre, and there is a nurses’ residence on the premises.
‘This is a good day, because some people doubted that we would build such a facility in such a far-flung area.
‘Our rationale is that people must have access to primary health care regardless of where they live.’
Dhlomo said bringing health care services to communities is vital in eradicating diseases.
The department then proceeded to Mduku where a nurses residence, sponsored by Phinda Private Game Reserve, was opened.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
