PCAU played a crucial role in the Lweza Community Health Program’s (LHCP) 5th medical camp, held on April 25th and 26th, marking a significant milestone in their efforts to create compassionate communities. This collaboration is part of PCAU’s ongoing efforts to integrate palliative care into community health initiatives, fostering a culture of compassion and support.
PCAU has been working in partnership with LHCP since last year to support creating a healthy community. This year’s fifth LHCP medical camp, an initiative led by Rose Kiwanuka (formerly PCAU’s Country Director) in her retirement, saw over 800 attendees receiving a wide range of health services from nearly 30 providers. Services included heart/pressure testing, ENT care, audiology, eye care, dental care, family planning, cancer screening, fitness promotion, nutritional education, health legal assistance, HIV testing, palliative care sensitization, hepatitis B screening and vaccination, substance abuse sensitization, speech and language therapy, yellow fever vaccination, orthopedic services, sickle cell screening, skin care and TB screening.
PCAU provided specialized palliative care services, focusing on pain management, counseling and support for patients with chronic illnesses. This ensured that people with long-term health conditions received the necessary care and guidance. Over 60 older persons received medical services and palliative care, which highlighted PCAU’s commitment to comprehensive healthcare. PCAU also donated two wheelchairs to LHCP to facilitate the transportation of older persons, demonstrating their commitment to improving accessibility and support for vulnerable community members. This outreach is part of PCAU’s broader strategy to integrate palliative care effectively into community health initiatives.
Students from Taibah International School’s School Compassionate Community Club (SCCoP) joined the medical camp as volunteers. Six SCCoP club members assisted older persons by directing them to service points, registering them, providing wheelchair assistance and offering emotional support and refreshments while they waited for treatment.
The impact of PCAU’s involvement with LHCP and SCCoP has been profound, helping to foster a culture of compassion and empathy in both the young and the elderly. The students are learning to identify and respond to the struggles of others, developing essential skills in empathy and community service.
Rose Kiwanuka expressed her gratitude, and noted the growing impact of the LHCP and its medical camps initiative in the Lweza community. She pointed to the significant turnout and the comprehensive services provided. She emphasized the importance of educating people on health-seeking behaviors and promoting primary healthcare within the community.
Hon. Alex Kintu Brandon, a member of the Ugandan parliament and a guest of honor at the medical camp, commended LHCP and the Lweza community for prioritizing health and pledged to advocate for government and ministry of health support for community-based health programs.