KZN Health MEC, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, officially opened the Ombimbini and KaHhemlana clinics in Ulundi last week.
The clinics were constructed at a cost of R17.5-million and R16.7 million respectively.
‘The clinics will be open five days a week for eight hours each day, and nurses are on call for all emergencies,’ Dhlomo said.
‘We urge communities to make use of the services, even if it is just for check-up purposes.’
Dhlomo said the facilities are equipped with user-friendly youth services.
‘From 3pm to 4pm young girls and boys can visit the clinic and consult a nurse who is friendly, understanding and ready to provide advice on any aspect.’
Dhlomo expressed concern about the low statistics relating to child immunisations in the area and the high rate of teenage pregnancy.
He urged mothers to ensure that their babies are immunised according to schedule.
‘Children under the age of 18 should not fall pregnant. While we urge them to abstain, those who cannot are offered contraceptives free of charge.’.
MEC Dhlomo further reassured the public that contrary to speculation, the nearby Thulasizwe Hospital would not be closed.
‘We want to give our assurance that it is not in our plans to close that hospital, or remove services. We can’t do that because just last week we announced our taking over of the Siloah Lutheran Hospital just 30km away from here.
‘Why would we be taking over a hospital that was about to close, and then close down a facility that the community needs?’
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