The Phelophepa Healthcare Train has officially arrived in Newcastle, drawing countless residents to the Newcastle train station in anticipation of accessible healthcare services.
Initially slated to commence operations in Newcastle on Monday, 22 January 2024, the well known healthcare train faced unexpected delays, leading to its arrival in town only on Tuesday afternoon, 23 January 2024.
As the medical team began providing affordable healthcare to the Newcastle community, Train Manager Bheki Mendlula expressed his satisfaction with the overwhelming response. “Newcastle always has a good turnout, but the response this year has been very positive, and there are a lot of people here. I must add, that Newcastle’s residents are resilient, as they started waiting for the train on Sunday (21 January 2024). Even when we told them there was a delay, they chose to wait,” stated Mendlula.
Observing the community members lining up at the train, Mendlula highlighted that the majority of residents seemed particularly interested in the eyecare services offered.
Moreover, the Phelophepa Healthcare Train is scheduled to offer services to the community until 26 January 2024, take a weekend break, and then resume operations from 29 January 2024 until 2 February 2024.
For those interested, the medical services available include the following:
- HIV/AIDS and TB screening and testing
- COVID-19 vaccinations
- Diabetic screenings and cancer education
- Medicine at a cost of R5 per prescription
- Free eye tests
- Glasses are available at a cost of R30
- Eyedrops available for a fee of R5
- Dental clinic offering free screenings, with procedures such as fillings and cleaning at a cost of R10. All procedures for children aged 15 and younger will be done for free.
- Counselling services to help people cope with stress, abuse, death, and parenting discipline will also be available at no charge.
After Newcastle, Mendlula explained that the Phelophepa Healthcare Train would travel to Greytown, Hluhluwe, Empangeni, and then Ulundi. However, Mendlula regretfully mentioned that the train would not be visiting neighbouring towns such as Ladysmith, Dundee, or Estcourt.
With the train set to remain in Newcastle for several days, residents in need of affordable healthcare are encouraged to visit the Phelophepa Healthcare Train.
What are your thoughts on the above-mentioned? Share your views in the comment section below.
2 Responses
It looks like the spirit of Christmas came early in Newcastle
The train brought a lot of relief to our people. And we are happy and ready to vote now.
Hi, please send us the address in Newcastle