Embu: Thousands of Embu residents flocked to Kanyuambora market in Mbeere North constituency for a free medical treatment camp, organized by a team of doctors from the USA in partnership with former Senator Lenny Kivuti.
According to Kenya News Agency, the annual event, hosted by COGIC Mission, brought together 50 doctors and medical practitioners to offer essential services including clinical screening for all diseases, free medicines, dental checkups, eye checkups, and orthopedic and pediatric services.
The free medical camp provided crucial healthcare access to residents, many of whom are facing challenges due to issues with the Social Health Authority (SHA), including the suspension of services by private hospitals over unpaid claims. Kivuti emphasized the importance of the annual camps in alleviating the healthcare struggles of residents who cannot afford medication due to financial difficulties.
"This has become a tradition for us in offering life-saving medical care to some of the neediest people in our county," he said. The former Senator highlighted that the program has, over the years, provided healthcare services to thousands who would otherwise go without treatment due to affordability issues.
Kivuti also criticized SHA for not meeting the expectations of Kenyans who seek accessible and affordable healthcare. "If SHA was working, we could not be witnessing what is happening here today, where thousands have travelled from far and wide to get free healthcare services," he remarked.
Dr. Valarie Daniels Carter from COGIC Mission stated that the initiative has significantly impacted those who struggle to afford healthcare, particularly in remote areas lacking infrastructure and healthcare workers. "That is why we have brought together a big team of doctors, who have travelled all the way to bring the much needed services closer to the people," she said.
One beneficiary, Judith Muthoni, expressed gratitude as she was on the path to recovery from a heart condition after receiving assistance to secure treatment at Tenwek hospital in Bomet county.