Traditional ruler organize medical outreach for residents to mark second coronation anniversary in Abia
Traditional ruler organize medical outreach for residents to mark second coronation anniversary in Abia
Ogbonnaya Ikokwu, Umuahia
The traditional ruler of Arochukwu kingdom in Abia State His Eminence Eze Eberechukwu Oji, (Eze Aro IX) has organized a free medical outreach in the community
as part of activities marking his Second Coronation Anniversary of providing healthcare services to residents of Arochukwu Kingdom and neighbouring communities.
Speaking during the outreach on Wednesday, a medical personnel, Nurse Favour Chidinma Nwaka, said the programme was organised alongside the anniversary crusade to offer free medical consultations, treatment and medications to members of the public.
According to her, patients were first examined by doctors before receiving nursing care and prescribed medications at no cost.
“Today, we are holding the medical outreach alongside the crusade. Patients first see the doctors, after which the nurses attend to them, and they are given free medications. It is our way of giving back to the people of Arochukwu,” she said.
Nwaka explained that the outreach was open to everyone, irrespective of their community of residence, noting that beneficiaries came from across Arochukwu Kingdom as well as neighbouring communities, including Ihechiowa and Ututu.
“This programme is not restricted to any particular village. Anyone who comes here is attended to. There is no discrimination. As long as you are here, you will receive medical attention,” she stated.
Speaking on the health conditions commonly treated during the exercise, Nwaka said many patients presented with hypertension, diabetes, malaria and typhoid fever, while more serious cases were referred to Aro All USA hospital in Arochukwu for further evaluation and treatment.
She attributed many of the illnesses to lifestyle choices, genetics, and aging rather than infectious disease outbreaks.
“Many of these illnesses are not pandemics or epidemics. Some are genetic, while others are linked to lifestyle. We advise people, especially those living with hypertension, to reduce their salt intake, adopt healthier lifestyles, and take their medications as prescribed,” she said.
Nwaka added that health education was a major component of the outreach, stressing that while illnesses can not always be prevented, healthy living and adherence to prescribed medications can significantly reduce their occurrence.
Although the one-day medical outreach has concluded, she encouraged beneficiaries who require further medical attention to visit healthcare facilities for proper follow-up and continued treatment.
Photo: medical personnel attending to a resident during the outreach