COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE CENTER ENHANCES SERVICES |
June 2024.
Up to 1,000 patients are assisted annually at the Noupoort Community Healthcare Centre, where notable enhancements in services have been observed following the appointment of Babalwa May as the new Radiographer. This addition has effectively met a crucial community healthcare requirement, elevating the standard of care for local residents through timely and efficient diagnosis and treatment.
Before the X-ray machine was installed, Noupoort residents had to travel 120 kilometres to Colesberg for radiography services, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment, as well as financial burdens. The availability of an X-ray machine within the local healthcare centre, coupled with May’s expertise, has improved medical imaging services in the area.
“The purchase of the X-ray machine for the Noupoort Community Healthcare Center remains one of our investment highlights. With access to this equipment, the medical facility offers better treatment plans, informed by the necessary x-rays as information about patient disease and injuries can be accessed promptly,” said Sandisiwe Mntonintshi, Economic Development Manager for Noupoort Wind Farm, which funded the purchase of the x-ray machine in 2021.
Native to the Northern Cape, May is a qualified Diagnostic Radiographer, holding a degree from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, obtained in 2012. With over a decade of professional experience, her return to Umsobomvu Local Municipality reflects a deep commitment to serving her local community.
“It has been a pleasure to be of service to a community that is close to home for me. The grant of the X-ray machine came with a huge change and relief to the community and staff. It was also a relief to the EMS department too. Patients can now have immediate access to the service without having to travel far,” said May.