KATAVI: TWENTY medical experts from the United States are scheduled to arrive in Katavi Region for a seven-day special medical camp in Tanganyika District.
The camp, set to begin this October, aims to provide free health screenings and treatments to local communities and beyond.
This will be the second team of medical specialists to visit the region. The first team, based in Chicago, conducted a similar camp in April, offering free health services for a week in Tanganyika District.
The upcoming medical camp will focus on delivering specialised medical services, including surgeries for hernias (inguinal, femoral, umbilical, incisional and epigastric), as well as oncology and gynecology surgeries for women.
Additionally, the specialists will perform surgeries related to kidney issues, ear, nose and throat (ENT) conditions and conduct breast cancer screenings. Treatment will also be provided for children born with hydrocephalus (excessive fluid in the brain) and spina bifida (open backs).
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Norbert and Friends Mission (NFM) Executive Director Mr Joel Yalanda shared details during a media briefing in Tanganyika District Council.
He noted that the first team of eighteen medical specialists, based in Chicago, had also visited the district in April.
Mr Yalanda emphasised that NFM collaborated with Tanganyika District Council to bring these specialists to the area, aiming to make specialised medical services more accessible.
Previously, patients had to travel long distances to reach facilities such as Mbeya Zone Referral Hospital, Benjamin Mkapa Medical Hospital in Dodoma, KCMC in Mwanza and Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) in Dar es Salaam.
The Medical-in-Charge at Tanganyika District Hospital, Dr Alex Mrema, urged the public to take advantage of this opportunity. He particularly encouraged parents of children with hydrocephalus and spina bifida to bring their children for treatment.
“The surgeries will be offered free of charge,” Dr Mrema said, adding that untreated hydrocephalus can cause severe physical and mental development issues, but with proper treatment, many individuals can lead normal lives.
Tanganyika District Council Executive Director Mr Shaaban Juma congratulated the Institute of Norbert and Friends Missions (NFM-BRIGHT) for its initiative to bring specialised medical services closer to the people.
“This effort will greatly benefit the citizens of Tanganyika District and surrounding areas,” Mr Juma said.