KPJ Puteri Specialist Hospital organised a medical camp at Kampung Parit Hassan at the Ulu Benut district, here, as part of its annual corporate social responsibility programme recently.
The camp reaches out to the community in rural areas to create awareness of the importance of health and hygiene.
It also involves offering basic medical tests.
This year, the camp saw the participation of the Kluang health department and its dental clinic.
Some 40 KPJ Puteri staff, including from its nursing and allied health department, medical officers, specialists and management staff volunteered at the camp which saw 160 village folk making a beeline for examinations and checks.
The camp kicked off with free basic health screening for body mass index (BMI), blood, cholesterol, glucose, eye screening, breast examinations, diet counselling, dental services and screening.
The hospital also conducted free circumcision. Twelve boys were circumcised that day and it was done in full tradition with prayers and khatam Quran (completion of the Quran).
While the older folk received medical attention, there was a colouring contest for primary school students.
Dentists had not only provided basic check-up but had also assisted some 60 villagers in securing appointments at the dental clinics.
The doctors from the district health department conducted pap smear services for elderly women. Free medical supplies and vitamins were also distributed.
Present were KPJ Puteri Special Hospital executive director-cum-chief executive director Khairun Ahmad, chief nursing officer Nooratikah Cholan and her deputy Faridah Ahmad Dawek.
Kg Parit Hassan village head Naim Ahmad said the camp was well-received.
“Most of us think that if it is not broken, then it doesn’t need fixing. However, we all also know that prevention is better than cure,” he said, adding that they were honoured that the specialists and dentists came to their humble village to provide the services for free.
Kluang district officer Muhammad Fuad Radzuan and Simpang Renggam assemblyman Abd Taib Abu Bakar officiated the camp.
Taib said the camp benefitted the villagers greatly and it was good to see the specialists, doctors and the community coming together as one.
“Volunteering is a valuable and enriching experience and it is not only good for one’s mental and physical health, it benefits the community,” he added.
Source: New Straits Times