Clinic gets more HIV tests done
The Witkoppen Clinic organised a testing event which saw residents learning about their HIV statuses.
On May 25, the Witkoppen Clinic in Fourways organised an important event to get residents of Diepsloot Ext 12 tested for HIV at the satellite clinic.
This event aimed to raise awareness about HIV by providing testing services and offering support to the community.
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The other primary goal according to the clinic’s Sbonga Shange, was to reduce the stigma surrounding HIV and to promote testing and adherence to medication regimens among children, along with their parents or guardians.
“We also wanted to emphasise the importance of maintaining suppressed viral loads for those living with the virus,” said Shange.
During the collaborative effort with Philile Crèche, the team was grateful for the generous provision of space which allowed for a seamless process of attending to the patients.
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Shange said Witkoppen Clinic’s dedicated counsellors conduct tests for more than 300 children and their parents.
The event was also supported by the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, which provided patients with tools and options to address alcoholism and drug addiction. Also, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group came through to provide valuable lessons to destigmatise mental illness and educate people to prevent teen suicide, which has been on the rise.
“We were incredibly grateful for these partnerships in reinforcing the importance of improving health access and education in our communities.
Jacob Motlhobane, the clinic’s HIV testing service coordinator, said he was proud of how the community showed up to support the event and how willing they were to learn their HIV status.
“We are grateful to our staff, sponsors, and the entire community of Diepsloot. Our patients were our top priority, and we were constantly seeking ways to make health more accessible.
“Should you want to be part of the change that is brought about through Witkoppen Clinic, please contact 011 705 2438 or email businessd@witkoppen.co.za.”
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