On November 22, the newly established Oyster Bay Healing Centre (Umzamowethu Clinic) collaborated with the Aurum Institute and The Healthy Mom and Baby Clinic to host an impactful outreach programme for the community of Oyster Bay.
According to Lésa Seeney, Manager of the Umzamowethu Clinic, the construction of the new clinic was completed in August, and the facility is currently awaiting licensure approval from the South African Pharmacy Council.
While the clinic’s official launch is planned for early 2025, Seeney mentioned that they have begun delivering home-based care services, demonstrating their commitment to providing accessible healthcare solutions.
In addition, they recently hosted a successful joint outreach programme with two organisations, the Aurum Institute and The Healthy Mom and Baby Clinic, and plan to host similar programmes regularly.
The Aurum Institute
The Aurum Institute is a leading global organisation dedicated to improving health systems and addressing public health challenges, particularly in the fields of HIV, TB, and other chronic illnesses.
With a focus on evidence-based interventions, the Aurum Institute plays a crucial role in advancing healthcare access and equity, especially in underserved communities.
“During the outreach programme, the Aurum Institute conducted 30 TB sputum tests and chest X-rays to screen for tuberculosis and other respiratory conditions,” said Seeney.
“During the process, a sternum chest deformity was also identified, demonstrating the programme’s broader impact on detecting underlying health issues.”
The Healthy Mom and Baby Clinic
This clinic is a specialised healthcare service provider focusing on maternal and child health.
The Healthy Mom and Baby Clinic is known for its commitment to promoting healthy pregnancies and nurturing strong families.
It offers vital support and services to ensure the well-being of mothers and their babies, including prenatal care, postnatal support, immunisations, and nutritional counselling. Seeney said that during the outreach programme, The Healthy Mom and Baby Clinic offered pregnancy scans, classes on labour and breastfeeding, baby weigh-ins, immunisations, and screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, and HIV and TB testing.
“Together, the three organisations brought essential health services and awareness to the community, reinforcing their shared mission to enhance health and well-being,” said Seeney.
Community Outreach
She mentioned that on the day of the outreach programme, at 10:00, the porch of Umzamowethu Clinic was filled with attendees of all ages, which reflected the community’s eagerness to engage in health and wellness initiatives. Seeney noted that a highlight of the event was the Young Lives Programme hosted by The Healthy Mom and Baby Clinic, which attracted a significant number of teenagers. “The programme tackled critical issues affecting young people today, including peer pressure, self-worth, sex education, teen pregnancy counselling, parenting for young mothers, and post-abortion support,” said Seeney.
Outreach programmes to continue
Building on the momentum of the collaborative outreach programme, Seeney announced that the Umzamowethu Clinic has planned its next initiative for February 7, 2025, at Sandwater Primary School in Oyster Bay.
This session will specifically address Grade 7 boys and girls, covering topics such as puberty, relationships, and the importance of making informed decisions.
“These initiatives highlight Umzamowethu Clinic’s dedication to fostering education, support, and empowerment in the community, ensuring that individuals of all ages have access to vital health information and counselling,” said Seeney. She thanked Dedré Goeda, Masande Mbopa, Sister Lynette van Onselen, Sister Carin Espag, Rifilwe Mototo, and the various supporting teams for their efforts in ensuring the outreach’s success.
Seeney further expressed her gratitude to Pick n Pay Fountains Mall and additional partners for their support.
