Cape Town: The festive season is here, and the Health Department of City of Cape Town reminds the residents to continue making healthy choices to ensure that they remain in fine fettle.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Patricia Van der Ross said that it is the time of year when most of them let their hair down and overindulge because they have worked hard and deserve a break.
“So, this may be true but to make sure that you start the new year on a positive note. I want to encourage the residents not to throw all caution to the wind. By following some basic guidelines, we can remain healthy and enjoy the festive season,” said Ross.
It is to be noted that the celebrations in Cape Town can disrupt the routines and if people are traveling, there are chances that they could miss the appointments or are away from the local clinic.
However, the consistent medication compliance is crucial for effective treatment and preventing complications. It is also important to consult about this with your health provider.
The key to ace it is to plan ahead of the schedule, set reminders, communicate effectively, store your medications and keep them out of reach of children.
Considerably, this year the Chronic Dispensing Unit (CDU) will distribute the patient medicine parcels for a duration of four months to all patients enrolled in Anti- Retrioviral Therapy (ART) Adherence Clubs within the Metro.
The distribution will occur for collection until the end of November to facilitate access during the festive season, contingent upon valid prescriptions covering the specific period.
Moreover, for other clients with chronic medications or TB who are not a part of adherence clubs, they need to consult with their pharmacist or nurse regarding potential arrangements if they plan to stay away.
Notably, the city health will continue to operate as usual except on public holidays. All routine care will be provided to walk in patients and includes sexual reproductive health services, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections.
Also, it consists of basic antenatal care, well-baby visits, sick children care and testing and treatment for TB, HIV care and non-communicable diseases.
PeEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is available to help in preventing the HIV transmission, while free condoms are dispensed to promote safe practices.
Councillor Van der Ross mentioned further that the clients are encouraged to check the arrangements at their local facility and to use the appointment system to avoid queuing by going to Healthcare Appointment System.
Ross added, “Staying healthy doesn’t have to put a damper on the festivities, by taking the necessary precautions, that they can all make it as a jolly time of the year.”