Staff Reporter
Member of Parliament for Gutu South Constituency, Pupurai Togarepi, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, has intensified free medical outreach programmes by bringing healthcare services to rural communities.
One of the latest outreach events was held at Makore Clinic in Gutu South Constituency, where hundreds of residents benefitted from free medical check-ups and treatment.
Speaking during the outreach over the weekend, the team leader, Dr. Olenga Benjamin, highlighted the significance of the programme in improving healthcare access for marginalised populations.
"This outreach programme will benefit local communities by ensuring both adults and children receive medical attention. Our aim is to unlock access to vital health checks, particularly for those in hard-to-reach areas, at no cost," Dr. Benjamin said.
The services provided during the outreach included immunisation for children, HIV and AIDS testing, and screenings for diabetes, hypertension, eye conditions, and other non-communicable diseases.
Medical personnel were on-site to examine and treat patients, ensuring they were well-informed about their health status.
Village health worker, Emillia Mutereke, expressed gratitude to the Government and the Member of Parliament for Gutu South Constituency, Pupurai Togarepi, for facilitating the outreach.
"We are grateful that medical services have been brought to our doorstep. Many people in our community cannot afford to visit a doctor due to financial constraints. This programme provides them with an opportunity to receive treatment and undergo medical examinations free of charge," Mutereke said.
She also emphasised that the outreach programme included specialist services, further enhancing the quality of care provided to residents.
One of the beneficiaries, Precious Mhembere, said she had initially brought her child for immunisation, but decided to take advantage of the opportunity to be examined by a doctor.
"I came for my child’s immunisation, but since there is a doctor available, I also decided to have a check-up. This initiative allows people in marginalised communities to access essential healthcare services, which would otherwise be beyond their reach. We are thankful to the Government and Honourable Togarepi for this programme," Mhembere said.
Honourable Togarepi reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that rural communities have access to quality healthcare services.
"As a representative of the people, my priority is to improve their well-being. Healthcare is a fundamental right, and we will continue working with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to bring these services closer to the people. No one should be left behind due to financial challenges or distance," Togarepi said.
Government’s outreach initiative is expected to continue reaching more rural communities, ensuring that those in remote areas receive quality healthcare services.
By providing free medical care, the program is improving the well-being of vulnerable populations and reducing the burden of preventable diseases.