Free medical clinics and health screenings were provided to non-communicable disease (NCD) patients in Lautoka this week.
The clinics, held by FRIEND Fiji in collaboration with the Health Ministry, provided an opportunity for people such as diabetics to get their usual checks closer to their homes.
FRIEND Fiji director Sashi Kiran said the screenings were a result of the organisation’s decision to restart their health and wellness programs.
She said over the past two years, usual medical and health care for NCD patients were at times put on hold when the focus was shifted to fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ms Kiran said the screenings would be carried out for rural communities between Ba and Nadi where medical teams would be conducting visitations to each community.
According to the NGO director, the medical outreach team in Lautoka encountered a large number of people turning up to get screened for diabetes and to get their blood pressure checked.
“Uncontrolled sugar and blood pressure are common as patients could not access medication,” Ms Kiran said.
“Our hope is that we can assist NCD patients get the care they need and those living with disabilities in the communities to get services from our physio team. After assessments those in need are also provided with mobility aid.
“The team will also conduct awareness sessions during these outreaches.”
