In fact, heart complications continue to claim the lives of those who do not have the means to seek treatment abroad. More heart patients will now be treated in the country as the facility will go a long way in reducing treatment costs and save lives as those who do not have the financial muscle to get it from countries such as India, will access it locally.
The official opening of the institute means a lot to this nation, since the facility is one of its kind in East and Central Africa, while at the same time launching yet another milestone in the historic friendship between China and Tanzania in the health sector.
The facility came about after a visit to China by President Kikwete who held discussions with former President Hu Jintao, making it possible for China to extend financial support amounting to 16.6bn/- to enhance construction of the facility together with installation of the necessary equipment.Explaining on the work so far accomplished at JKCI, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Seif Rashid, said a total of 14,000 heart patients at different levels have undergone treatment, whereas 912 were admitted and 148 undergoing successful open heart surgeries.
The work that has been accomplished by the facility is impressive to say the least. The JKCI marks a watershed in the history of the country as it will see many people accessing treatment locally.
But, more should be done to make sure that the hapless rural poor access treatment at the facility. If possible, heart treatment should be offered free of charge to those without the ability to pay.
This will enable the facility to be of maximum benefit to the country and the people. The powers that be should also put in place special financial facilities to take care for those who are disadvantaged.
The management of the institute should, however, strive to uphold standards and make sure that the facility remains one of the best not only in East Africa, but in Africa as a whole.
/Daily News.
No comments :
Post a Comment