The Eastern Cape Department of Health continued to bring primary health services closer to the people when it opened newly built Thembalethu Clinic in Newlands, Amathole District.
The opening of Thembalethu Clinic which was part of the Provincial EXCO outreach programme started with a visit to the Cecilia Makiwane Hospital in Mdantsane where construction is underway for a Mortuary, Main Kitchen, Laundry and Storeroom.
The clinic cost the department R5,6 million and is fully staffed with five professional nurses and services like Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT), breastfeeding and family planning being offered.
Member of the Clinic Committee, Mr Badashe narrated how eight villages used to cross a river to get services because they depended on one clinic.
Deputy Director-General (DDG) for Clinical services, Dr Nandi Diliza told the Nxaruni Community that the facility belonged to them and it is their duty to look after it. Dr Diliza also urged them to make use of the clinic and not run straight to the hospital for minor ailments as nurses are well equipped to treat such.
Issued by: Department of Health, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
24 July 2009
