Residents of Morogoro Municipality have called for the establishment of ongoing medical camps to help them access healthcare services promptly and without hassle.
The appeal came after attending a free medical camp organized by women from Mzinga Hospital, the Health Sector Women of Morogoro Municipality, and the Military Medical Corps.
The camp, which offers free healthcare services, is being held at the Sabasaba Health Center grounds in Morogoro.
Farida Maulidi, a resident of Konga, said, "I received all the tests I needed without any inconvenience, and it was completely free. We, as residents, need these services regularly to monitor our health."
Jostina Senyagwa also highlighted the advantages of medical camps, explaining that they allow the public to easily assess their health.
She compared this to hospitals, where long waiting times often discourage people from seeking medical help.
"The service here is efficient and fast. We get tested, and the results are provided immediately, unlike at the hospital where we endure long waits and leave feeling more exhausted," Senyagwa noted.
Residents pointed out that many patients often arrive at hospitals too late due to the lack of timely health checks. They argued that if medical camps were available in their areas, more people would be encouraged to seek early treatment upon diagnosis.
During the opening of the camp, Acting District Medical Officer Dr. Ester Masaule emphasized that the government’s goal is to make healthcare services, including preventive care and testing, more accessible so that people can detect potential health issues early.
"This initiative allows residents to receive free tests, and if any health concerns are identified, they are promptly provided with initial medical treatment," Dr. Masaule explained.
The coordinator of the five-day camp, Demantiria Mushi, stated that the free healthcare services are part of preparations for International Women's Day, which will be globally celebrated in Arusha, where President Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected to be the guest of honor.
The camp offers free screenings for eye health, diabetes, blood pressure, HIV, cervical cancer, malaria, and hepatitis.
Those diagnosed with health issues receive advice and initial treatment, allowing them to continue with further medical care.
The event is organized by women from Mzinga Hospital and the health sector women of Morogoro Municipality, providing a range of tests and initial treatments for those diagnosed with various health challenges.