A joint multi-million rand project between Kimberley Medi-Clinic and Kimberley Hospital Complex, Department of Health, Northern Cape will restore vision to 280 patients, as part of the biggest ever corporate social investment initiative undertaken by Medi-Clinic Southern Africa.

This R2,5 million project, which involves the removal of cataracts and forms part of the first tier of the company’s structured CSI strategy, will start on 22 May 2010 and take about three months to complete.  Dr Mvula Yoyo, Transformation Executive, Medi-Clinic Southern Africa says an agreement was reached between the two parties to address the backlog of cataract operations which exists in the province. “Our CSI strategy consists of three distinct tiers, and Public Private Initiatives such as these spearhead our endeavours to ensure a future of quality healthcare in South Africa.”

Kimberley Hospital will provide transport of patients and Pharmaceuticals to the value of R290 000 to make the joint collaboration a success.

A team of private ophthalmologists, together with senior medical officers and anaesthetists from the Kimberley Hospital Complex, will be operating on the patients on weekends, when Kimberley Medi-Clinic has the spare theatre capacity. The recipients were identified by the Kimberley Hospital Complex eye clinic, starting with those who have been on its waiting list the longest. 

These operations will enable blind patients to see again, to become self-sufficient, start working again, read and write and enjoy fulfilling lives.  According to Mr GI Moncho, Chief Executive Officer of Kimberley Hospital, there is still a backlog and there will be a continued need from people requiring cataract removals in the province. “This joint initiative will go a long way to restoring vision to blind patients in the Northern Cape.”

The management and staff at Kimberley Medi-Clinic and Kimberley Hospital Complex support the project fully and are eager for it to begin. Drs Meldrick Booysen and Jaco Maartens, the ophthalmologists, will be performing the operations free of charge.  “It is a privilege to be part of a deserving project like this,” says Dr Booysen.  “Even though it is a big project and will take time to complete, it is great to know that cutting edge technology will be used, and the patients will receive the best care possible.”

Henry Hendricks, Kimberley Medi-Clinic Hospital Manager, says the hospital will continue striving towards building a productive and positive relationship with the department of health. “We are proud to alleviate the burden on the public sector by partnering with them in deserving projects such as this one.”

According to Mr Moncho, the management of Kimberley Hospital Complex is willing to work together with any corporate that would like to contribute to the upliftment of the health of the people of the Northern Cape. “We are committed to good relationships through Public Private Partnerships with companies who would be willing to engage in future joint programs with this institution. Improving health services will always remain our priority”