Hout Bay health professionals called to action for Family Health Day

Hout Bay’s doctors, nurses, dentists and allied health professionals are being called on to give a little of their time - and help make a big difference - at this year’s Hout Bay Family Health Day on Saturday, September 12.

The annual community health initiative returns from 8am at Sentinel Primary Hout Bay and Hout Bay Pre-primary School, with organisers hoping to make this year’s clinic bigger than ever.

Students' Health and Welfare Centres Organisation (SHAWCO) co-ordinator Shelli Louise Marx said last year’s event was a huge success, with approximately 420 patients receiving care thanks to the efforts of around 300 volunteers.

But with demand so high, some patients unfortunately had to be turned away. This year, organisers want to change that.

“The more doctors and allieds we have, the more patients we can see,” said Marx, who is appealing to health professionals across Hout Bay and surrounding areas to volunteer their time for the day.

Calling all health professionals

The Family Health Day is looking for a wide range of registered healthcare professionals, including such as doctors, dentists, dietitians, pharmacists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, audiologists, speech therapists, social workers and nurses.

Other registered health professionals are also encouraged to come forward and lend their expertise.

The event is being hosted in collaboration with SHAWCO Health, Rotary Hout Bay, UWC Dentistry and RES Health, creating an opportunity for professionals from different disciplines to work together in providing much-needed services to the community.

You don't have to be a medical professional

And if you don't work in healthcare, there is still a place for you.

General volunteers are also urgently needed to help guide and move patients between the different healthcare professionals and assist with the smooth running of the clinic.

Marx describes the day as hard-working but also a lot of fun, reflecting on last year’s event as “a blast”.

Volunteers will also be provided with lunch - a bonus after a busy morning of giving back.

"We aiming for a bigger clinic this year with about 500 patients. Last year was a record of 420. We even have Hout Bay Private practice doctors, dentists, etc to join us so we can see more patients," Marx said.

Give a few hours. Help someone get care.

The appeal is simple: if you have professional healthcare skills, share them. If you don't, share your time.

With more volunteers, organisers hope they can reach more patients and ensure that fewer people have to be turned away.

Those wanting to volunteer can register on WhatsApp on 082 758 5963 or send a direct message to the organisers.