Anti-retroviral (ARV) enrolment, basic antenatal and postnatal care, as well as adult chronic care, have been added to the basket of primary healthcare services at the Gordon’s Bay community day centre (CDC).p>The new services were officially launched by mayoral committee member for area east, Anda Ntsodo, on Thursday May 10.
The Gordon’s Bay CDC joins Ikhwezi, Dr Ivan Toms, Sir Lowry’s Pass, Luvuyo, Kuyasa, Town 2 and Matthew Goniwe clinics which have undergone similar enhancements.
”These eight healthcare facilities serve the poorest of the poor who should not need to travel far to get the basic care they need. Efforts will continue to be made to expand health services across the city,” said Mr Ntsodo.
“The City of Cape Town provides nurse-based services. It is a challenge to be able to offer ARVs and adult curative care from our small health facilities with the limited doctor and pharmacy resources the City has. Yet we are doing our best to meet our customers’ needs.
“Now that we have improved the ARV and TB programmes, the prevention, screening and treatment of diseases of lifestyle such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease are becoming more important. Many of these diseases can either be prevented or managed if they are diagnosed and treated early. Serious complications such as blindness, amputation and kidney failure can be avoided,” said Mr Ntsodo.
“The City is making it easier for the elderly, unemployed and disadvantaged patients by bringing services closer to communities.
“Improving residents’ living conditions and promoting individual and community health and welfare are critical components of that effort,” said Mr Ntsodo.
