MEN in Durban might be reluctant to visit clinics, but eThekwini Municipality has unveiled a new initiative aimed at encouraging them to use these medical facilities more regularly.
This week it announced that “men-only” healthcare corners had been set up in six clinics across the city as a way of prioritising their health. These facilities can be found at clinics in Lamontville, Pinetown, Savannah Park, Mzamo, Mpola, and Chesterville and they offer exclusive health services for men.
Rosemary Van Heerden the municipality’s Head of Health said: “We launched the pilot project at the Pinetown Clinic, aiming to change the mindset where men typically sought medical help only as a last resort or after trying self-medication or alternative remedies. The pilot began around two years ago, and due to increasing demand, we’ve since expanded to six clinics with dedicated men’s health sections.”
She said that the initiative which emerged from a growing demand for male-friendly healthcare spaces, has already made a significant impact.
According to Van Heerden the idea was initiated by the National Department of Health which identified that men were reluctant to visit healthcare facilities. It then brought the City on board to help close the gap. She said the goal was to continue growing this number to meet the ongoing need.
“The facilities are still open to everyone, but these six clinics specifically have sections within them that are exclusively for men only,” said Van Heerden.
In an effort to help men feel more comfortable, she said that the City had trained male nurses which were specifically assigned to these dedicated sections. While the aim was to increase the number of male nurses, Van Heerden said that the City had ensured that it had a balanced team by including experienced female nurses in supporting roles.
“The City encourages men to visit healthcare facilities and to make them their first point of reference when they are unwell and require medical assistance.
“The services offered in these sections are comprehensive primary healthcare services. These are normal services that patients receive when they go to the clinic and include treatment for minor ailments, management of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, as well as mental health screening,” said Van Heerden.