Free healthcare services reach Vaalower informal settlement
Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Faith Mazibuko joined healthcare teams at Vaalower Informal Settlement in Vanderbijlpark as part of the #Siyabaphilisa outreach programme aimed at taking essential health services closer to communities.
Residents were screened for hypertension, diabetes and other health conditions, while healthcare workers provided health education and linked patients to further care where needed.
“We are bringing healthcare services closer to communities so that residents can be screened, receive health education and be connected to the care they need,” Mazibuko said.
The outreach also included HIV and TB testing, immunisation, family planning, oral healthcare, Pap smears and prostate screening. Mazibuko distributed sanitary pads to women and girls to support menstrual health and dignity.
Mazibuko and Social Development officials also visited an elderly resident at her home to hear concerns about her health and the family’s wellbeing.
Arrangements were subsequently made for the woman to undergo a full health screening at a clinic, while officials will assist the family with obtaining birth certificates for her grandchildren.
The #Siyabaphilisa programme forms part of the provincial government’s efforts to improve access to healthcare, particularly in underserved communities.
