By: Simon Ushie.
Over 300 refugees from the Republic of Cameron as well as some members of their host Communities in Calabar South Local Government Area have received free medical care courtesy of the Cross River State Government and the Nigerian Red Cross Society.
The exercise which was part of the 2021 World Red Cross Day Celebration offered services ranging from blood sugar level check, optometry, blood pressure check, dental services,mental health services, vaccination Among others .
Speaking to beneficiaries at the newly constructed Primary Healthcare Centre, Garden, the Director General of the Cross River State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Janet Ekpenyong urged them to make health facilities their first point of call during medical emergencies instead of the practice of self medication.
She encouraged them to observe simple etiquettes of good living which include, eating good and balanced diets, observing appropriate amount of rest daily, regular health check up and the maintanance of good and personal hygiene.
She thanked the Nigerian Red Cross Society for partnering with the state Government in order to take health services closer to the door steps of indigenes and residents of Cross River State .
And noted that the Government of Senator Ben Ayade is committed to ensure that, everyone receives quality, and Effective Healthcare at the most affordable rate if any.
A representative of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Dr Ernest Ochang Stated that, the Organization is pleased with the state Government’s response to the general health of the people and it’s magnanimity towards the refugees , an occasion which prompted the collaboration to offer free health services for all.
One of the beneficiaries , Miss Thelma Evom thanked the state government for the safety and peace they now enjoy without discrimination, as she applauded the initiative of the Nigerian Red to partner with the state government in offering free and voluntary health care services to the people.
The exercise also witnessed sensitization of people on Covid19, importance of the maintaining the laid down protocols as well as the importance of the Vaccines.
