Chinese doctors provide free services in South Sudan

Source: Xinhua| 2017-09-14 21:55:27|Editor: Mengjie
Video PlayerClose

JUBA, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- A team of Chinese doctors working in South Sudan on Thursday offered free medical services for students and staff members at the University of Juba.

The team of specialist doctors provided specialized medical services focusing on diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases to more than 100 students and staff members at the University of Juba Health Center.

The 15-member Chinese medical team from China's Anhui Province came to South Sudan in February, and they have been providing free medical services in the country's main referral hospital, Juba Teaching Hospital and other health centers across South Sudan.

For the past six years running, China has dispatched five medical teams with a total of 66 members who offered specialized medical care and surgeries for more than 50,000 patients across South Sudan.

Andy Yan, a translator for the Chinese medical team, said they intend to expand their operations across South Sudan in a bid to access more people, adding that the team would be conducting more outreach services.

"We want to show our responsibility and play our part to distribute the medical service to the local people and also help more people get access to services provided by the China medical team," Andy said.

Carlo Obir, Head Medical Officer at University of Juba Health Center, said the Chinese doctors are doing excellent work in South Sudan.

"The work the Chinese doctors are doing is very excellent. We are happy for them because they are doing good job in South Sudan. If I have some cases, will invite them (Chinese doctors) to come back," Obir said.

"I came here to check for diabetes, heart and lungs function. The Chinese doctors told me that I'm fine. So I thank them for the services offered free of charge and I urge them to expand their work," 55-year old Yunis Gire told Xinhua after being attended to by the Chinese doctors.

Another patient Lusia Musa said the free medical services provided by the Chinese doctors spared her from spending money to visit private clinics which are costly.

"I thank the Chinese for helping us with the free medical services otherwise I would spend a lot of money if I were to go to a clinic. If they are coming back next time, they should also include testing of Malaria and cancer in their program," Musa said.

Since gaining independence in 2011, China has contributed diplomatic and material support to South Sudan.

In February, the two countries agreed to boost cooperation in the health sector by enhancing knowledge sharing, capacity building, and hospital to hospital collaboration.

South Sudan and China have also started implementing a project for the modernization of two health facilities in the war-torn country as part of 33 million U.S. dollar medical assistance pledged by Beijing in 2013.

TOP STORIES
EDITOR’S CHOICE
MOST VIEWED
EXPLORE XINHUANET
010020070750000000000000011100001366101471