By Darlington UDOBONG
In a time marked by inflation, economic instability, and high cost of living burdening ordinary individuals, and where access to affordable healthcare remains a pressing issue for countless households and communities nationwide, initiatives like the HENSEK Free Medical/Surgical Outreach shine brightly as beacons of hope and wellness.
In Akwa Ibom State, the name HENSEK has unequivocally become a household name and brand. For many, it represents an indigenous construction giant, a caregiver, a pathfinder and a torchbearer. HENSEK’s consistency in rendering free medical/surgical services to residents of Akwa Ibom State shows its holistic approach to healthcare delivery. Through 10 successful editions, HENSEK has partnered the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) to provide care and cure to vulnerable and poor citizens and residents of Akwa Ibom State. It is, indeed, humanity at work. Many thanks to the man behind the HENSEK brand, Engr. Uwem Stephen Okoko.
The 10th Edition of the outreach, which caters for all forms of ailment and is open for everyone, is currently on at the General Hospital, Iquitaz Oron. So far, the exercise which commenced on Monday, February 12, 2024, has recorded huge successes in 592 Optical cases, 117 Dental cases, treated over 1500 outpatients, handled four Gynaecology cases (1 CS), handled 82 Ear-Nose-Throat cases and 208 Surgeries including cases of fibroid, myomectomy, Lipoma, hysterectomy and excisional biopsy. The event will come to an end on Friday, February 16, 2024.
Some of the outreach grounds in the past include the Atan Offot Health Centre, Ituk Mbang General Hospital, the Oruk Anam General Hospital, and the Ikot Abasi General Hospital, where an Ultra-Modern Medical Theatre, christened Stephen Robert Okoko Memorial Theater, was constructed, equipped and donated for public use.
Cardinal on the scorecard of the HENSEK outreach is its contribution to improving healthcare access for rural communities. By bringing medical services directly to dwellers of these communities, regardless of their financial status or social, HENSEK bridges the gap between healthcare providers and those in need.
Again, through health check-ups, screenings, and awareness campaigns carried out by the HENSEK outreach, individuals have been empowered with knowledge about preventive measures and the importance of early intervention, thus reducing the burden of advanced-stage illnesses and improving overall health outcomes.
Still on the scorecard of the HENSEK Free Medical/Surgical Outreach, it is noteworthy to mention that beyond medical treatment, the HENSEK outreach program has empowered communities by fostering a sense of self-reliance and ownership of their health. Through active involvement of host community members in health education sessions and awareness campaigns at every outreach event, HENSEK has instilled a culture of health consciousness and encouraged individuals to take proactive steps towards improving their well-being.
The HENSEK Free Medical/Surgical Outreach also goes beyond addressing physical health concerns. It addresses socio-economic disparities that hinder access to healthcare. This is true in the sense that by offering services such as free consultations, medication distribution, and referrals to specialized care, the outreach alleviates the financial burden associated with healthcare expenses, enabling individuals to prioritize their health without facing financial hardship. This, indeed, is an undisputable mark on the scorecard.
Another significant benefit of the HENSEK Free Medical/Surgical Outreach is the trust it builds within the community. The commitment of the outreach to community engagement and collaboration has fostered trust between NMA (the healthcare provider) and the communities it serves. Through this community engagement, HENSEK has also cultivated a supportive environment in which individuals feel valued, heard, and understood, thereby strengthening the foundation for sustainable healthcare interventions.
So, the scorecard of HENSEK Free Medical/Surgical Outreach is unparalleled. The benefits of the Outreach extend far beyond the realm of healthcare, touching the lives of individuals and communities in profound ways. By championing accessibility, empowerment, and holistic well-being, Engr. Uwem Stephen Okoko, through this programme, exemplifies the transformative power of grassroots initiatives in addressing healthcare disparities and fostering healthier, more resilient communities.
As our nation continues to navigate the complexities of healthcare delivery, HENSEK’s unwavering commitment to leaving no one behind in the pursuit of better health for all remains an incredible inspiration.
