Hundreds of residents from Alego-Usonga turned up at St Elizabeth Mbaga Health Centre for a free medical camp organised by the Catholic Church-run hospital.
Residents said the camp came at a crucial time, addressing rising health challenges in the area, especially amid frustrations over frequent service delays by the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The day-long camp provided services for ailments such as high blood pressure and diabetes, as well as eye and dental care. Health talks were also offered on the prevention and management of chronic and infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS and cancer.
Speaking during the event, the head of the health centre, Sister Anne Priska, said the centre intends to make the free medical camp an annual event and thanked all stakeholders for their support.
One of the medics, Clinical Officer Beryl Odhiambo, noted that most attendees were elderly residents with multiple health complications. “Most patients who turned up are the elderly,” she said.
Ms Odhiambo also emphasised the importance of enrolling in the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) to enable timely access to medical care. “Sickness has become a burden to society, and there is a need for people to take medical cover,” she said.
By Philip Onyango
