A new patient transport vehicle was recently handed over to the Loeriesfontein community.
THE LOERIESFONTEIN community, health officials and other key stakeholders welcomed the recent handover of a much-needed patient transport vehicle by Loeriesfontein and Khobab wind farms.
The patient transporter has the potential to boost the local health-care system, as it will help Loeriesfontein community members to access medical services and care.
Nursing Sister Annie Opperman said the new vehicle is of great value as it allows patients to travel to and from the health facility quicker, shorten waiting periods and save money.
“It is especially beneficial for the elderly, pregnant women and mothers with small children.
“We are very grateful for the bus, as it contributes to the optimal delivery of patient care,” said Opperman.
Funded by Loeriesfontein and Khobab wind farms, the handover saw the Department of Health, represented by the Namaqua District health manager, Daniel Grootboom, and the acting EMS district manager, Ayabonga Somi, forming part of the event.
The economic development manager for Khobab and Loeriesfontein wind farms, Vanessa Fredericks, said the local clinic is currently the only health-care facility in the community and it is located some distance away from its residents.
“People, especially the elderly, are unable to walk the distance to receive health-care services, which is one of the reasons why it was decided to provide this support,” Fredericks said.
The vehicle will benefit the 2,700 community members by providing access to the necessary and appropriate health care services.
As a result, the health of the community will be improved, the life expectancy of community members will increase, and chronic conditions can be detected and treated earlier.
