Empilisweni Clinic proudly announces its inaugural PWUD Clinic Open Day on Thursday, 6 February 2025. This event marks a pivotal achievement stemming from extensive community-led monitoring discussions facilitated by the South African Network of People who Use Drugs (SANPUD) The initiative aims to bridge the gap between healthcare services and the local community of people who use drugs (PWUD) in the Sedibeng District Zone 7.

Community-Driven Healthcare Initiative

The Open Day is a direct response to insights gathered from SANPUD's data collection sessions as part of the community-led monitoring efforts. Conversations with PWUD participants revealed significant hesitancy in seeking healthcare due to various barriers, along with a lack of awareness about vital local healthcare programmes. This event at Empilisweni Clinic intends to tackle these challenges by enhancing access to and adherence to healthcare services.

In addition to improving healthcare access, the clinic emphasises collaboration with local stakeholders, receiving strong support from various organisations and healthcare providers.

Event Highlights and Engagements

The Open Day is designed to maximise benefits for attendees through various activities. Key offerings include confidential HIV screening and testing, as well as health talks aimed at dispelling stigma and providing accurate information about drug use and healthcare.

A diverse lineup of participants will enhance the event's impact. Lesedi La Bacha will provide health education and social mobilisation, while two counsellors will focus on HIV testing. The Clinic Committee will engage in health talks, supported by two nurses managing operations and consultations. The Facility Manager will oversee the event, and Indibano Victim Empowerment will offer support initiatives. The Teng Teng Support Group will also participate, contributing to a robust support network.

Empowering the PWUD Community

The objectives of the Open Day are clear and impactful. We aim to facilitate access to healthcare services for PWUD individuals, ensuring they are informed about available resources. Additionally, we will enhance clinic staff training to foster a welcoming atmosphere. The event promotes collaboration among stakeholders and seeks to dismantle barriers—physical, social, and psychological—that hinder healthcare access. Behavioural change interventions and harm reduction initiatives will be implemented to minimise the health risks associated with drug use.

The Open Day offers significant benefits to PWUD individuals, including improved healthcare access, better self-care practices, and increased treatment adherence. This event represents a critical step toward enhancing health outcomes and quality of life for the PWUD community in Sedibeng.

Empilisweni Clinic invites all stakeholders, community members, and interested parties to join this transformative event. Together, we can create a healthier, more supportive environment for everyone.