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Phelophepa parked at a station
Some Kimberley residents have for the past three weeks been camping at the train station in the city to access much needed healthcare.
Transnet’s Phelophepa train that pulled in on the 10th of September has had to extend its service duration due to an influx of patients needing medical care.
Thousands of vulnerable patients have for the past weeks been sleeping at the train station in a desperate attempt to get the help they need.
The train got off to a slow start following an incident of cable theft.
The Phelophepa train was schedule to arrive on the 8th of this month but was delayed by two days due to criminality. But once the train doors opened many who have been trying to get help at local facilities were finally assisted.
Patients from Kimberley and neighbouring towns have praised those working on the train for their professionalism and skills.
“The service is fast, it’s cheap. Affordable and quick if you come early,” says resident Latoya Lloyd.
“I’m here today for the services specifically for the eye clinic, because I have a problem with my eyes. I really don’t see properly so I needed the spectacles that’s why am here today. The service is good because it’s not the first time am coming,” says Nthabiseng Letsitsi.
“I am from Ritchie, arrived here at 4am. Came to the train because it assists us with a lot of things. Like me I am not working, I don’t have money so at least they will assist me. The dentists are there, everyone is there, the doctors,” says another health services seeker Willem Morris.
Medical professionals on the train offer services that include dental care, eye care, general health screenings and counselling services. Spectacles cost less than R100 a pair.
“We ended up spending three weeks in Kimberley because of the demand of services. So far, we have seen over 4 000 patients. We have great collaboration with the Department of Health and try to bridge the gap between services on offer and what is lacking,” says Dr. Thabiso Manamela.
Despite the discomfort of waiting long and sometimes sleeping next to the train tracks ahead of seeing a doctor, many who have used the health services say it is worth the temporary discomfort.
The health train will pull out of the city on Friday.
