Over 1,000 benefit from free Calabar outreach

By Judex OKORO

No fewer than 1,000 residents of Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State benefited from a free medical outreach organised by Arubah Specialist Hospital in collaboration with key health bodies.

The initiative, tagged “Free Healthcare for All,” was supported by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Cross River State chapter, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), and the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital.

The outreach, held at Government Secondary School Field, Atu Street, was organised to mark the birthday of the Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Governor, Chief Emmanuel Ironbar, and was open to residents across the area.

Speaking at the event, Ironbar described the initiative as “thoughtful and impactful,” noting that it aligned with government’s commitment to improving access to healthcare at the grassroots. He called for “stronger partnerships to expand medical services to underserved communities.”

Chief Medical Director of Arubah Specialist Hospital, Dr Ikechukwu, said the outreach was part of the hospital’s corporate social responsibility, adding that “the large turnout underscores the urgent need for sustained community-based health interventions.”

Also speaking, NMA Chairman in the state, Dr Ezoke Epoke, described the programme as “a strong example of collaboration among health professionals,” pledging continued support for initiatives that promote preventive healthcare and reduce disease burden. 

He urged residents to “prioritise regular health checks.”

Over 40 medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists and pharmacists, were deployed for the exercise.

Services provided included eye examinations with reading glasses, fasting blood sugar tests, blood pressure checks, general consultations with free medication, and women’s health services.

Organisers said the outreach aimed to improve access to basic healthcare, particularly for underserved populations, while promoting preventive practices.

Beneficiaries commended the initiative, describing it as timely.

One of them, Mrs Emediong Akpan, said: “I had an eye problem and was examined and given medications. I also have a BP issue and was counselled and treated.

“One of the doctors even asked me to call him from time to time. I’m happy I received proper care. I hope this is done regularly to help people like us.”

 THE BEAGLE NEWS