Staff Reporter
Community members in Chipinge have commended the Government for installing advanced X-ray machines at Mount Selinda and St. Peter’s Hospitals, in Checheche.
The new equipment is expected to significantly improve healthcare services by enhancing diagnostic capabilities at the two public institutions.
The development comes as a relief to residents who previously had to travel long distances, often to Mutare or even Harare, for X-ray services.
Speaking at the commissioning of the new machines, District Medical Officer Dr. Ozzimmo Matekenya expressed gratitude for the development and encouraged the public to take full advantage of the service.
“These X-ray machines will greatly improve patient care in our district. They will assist in the timely detection of fractures, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and other conditions that require imaging for proper diagnosis. We urge community members to utilise this facility instead of seeking costly alternatives elsewhere,” said Dr. Matekenya.
The installation of the X-ray machines is part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in rural areas. Health authorities say the move aligns with the national vision of universal healthcare provision and reducing pressure on referral hospitals.
Community members have welcomed the development, describing it as a game-changer for Chipinge’s healthcare system.
A local resident, Patience Magora, expressed her relief, highlighting the struggles many families previously faced when seeking X-ray services.
“For years, we have suffered because of the lack of X-ray services in our hospitals. Many people couldn’t afford to travel to big cities for scans, which meant they had to live with undiagnosed illnesses or injuries. Now, with these machines here in our community, things will be much easier for us,” Magora said.
Another community member, Tafadzwa Ncube, echoed similar sentiments, emphasising the financial relief this brings to ordinary citizens.
“This is a huge relief, especially for low-income families. Transport costs to distant hospitals were unbearable. Some people even resorted to traditional remedies because they could not afford to travel for proper medical check-ups. We truly appreciate this initiative,” Ncube said.
Health officials assured the public that trained radiographers would be deployed to operate the machines effectively. Additionally, the Ministry of Health and Child Care pledged continuous maintenance to ensure the equipment remains functional.
With the new X-ray machines now in place, many residents hope this marks the beginning of broader healthcare improvements in the district, addressing other critical gaps in medical services.
