Public Event Promoting Healthcare Services Integration at local level to increase coverage of people from marginalised populations

Cape Town, South Africa – On Wednesday, 05 February 2025, an important event will take place at the Chapel Street Clinic in Woodstock, Cape Town. This initiative, organised by community organisations, aims to promote the integration of healthcare and social services at local level to increase coverage of people from marginalised populations. The Department of Health, SANPUD, TBHIVCare, and others are coming together to make this a reality.

Event Details

• Date: 05 February 2025
• Venue: Chapel Street Clinic, Woodstock, Cape Town
• Participants: Department of Health, Chapel Street Clinic, Disability Sector, PWUD Sector, SANPUD, PWUD Community Members, TBHIVCare

The Importance of the Event

Access to comprehensive healthcare is vital for everyone, especially marginalised groups. According to the 2024 Global AIDS Report, published in July 2024, consistent healthcare access for marginalised communities remains crucial if we are to meet the Global Alliance of Eradicating Aids by 20230. Political commitment to financing and human rights has been dwindling in recent years. This endangers HIV response efforts, particularly for people in communities facing human rights violations because of the criminalisation of their life choices, such as possession and use of drugs as well as sex-workers. A widening funding gap and restrictive policies exacerbate these challenges.

Nongovernmental and community-led organisations play a key role in providing services to neglected populations. They face legal and regulatory hurdles, with solidarity between and within countries is fraying, civic spaces are shrinking. These barriers threaten universal healthcare access and basic human rights.

Objectives of the Activity

1. Bridge Gaps: Facilitate connections between the PWUD community and local healthcare clinics, ensuring services are accessible without stigma or discrimination.
2. Promote Integration: Highlight the benefits of integrating HIV and other health services to improve health outcomes and support universal health coverage.
3. Awareness and Support: Provide PWUD with information on available services, the importance of health check-ups, and the support systems in place for ongoing care.

Benefits to People Who Use Drugs

Participants will receive essential healthcare services, including:

• Health Screenings: Regular physical and mental health check-ups.
• Vaccinations: Essential immunisations.
• Testing: Access to HIV, STI, and TB tests.
• Women's Health: Pap smears for female participants.

Attendees will also receive information materials, support referrals, and access to support groups. Improving healthcare access for PWUD is key to their well-being and to combating discrimination.

Support and Goodies

To encourage participation, we will provide:

• Personal Hygiene Kits: 50 sets of toothpaste, toothbrushes, face cloths, face soap, and roll-ons.
• Educational Materials: 50 health comic books.

Refreshments: Lunch will be provided