While the importance of healthcare is widely understood, the high cost of such care in the private sector keeps people away from seeking timely diagnosis and help.
The establishment of the Roskill Union and Community Health Centre on 1492 Dominion Road has brought solace and relief not only to the resident community but also to the people in the neighbouring areas.
It is a part of the National Hauora Coalition and is a member of Healthcare Aotearoa.
Manager Rajnish Sethi said that the Centre encourages people to undergo regular medical examination so that problems if any can be detected early and treated accordingly.
Low cost
He said that people can register at the Centre for a modest fee of $25 per person (adult), $15 for youngsters in the six to 18 year age group and free for children below six years of age.
“Thereafter, adults pay $10 per visit, while superannuants are charged only $5 per visit. Primary and secondary school students are treated free,” he said.
Varied services
According to Mr Sethi, registered and funded patients get access to various free services, including an interpreter, diabetes management and access to a smoking cessation clinic.
“Women are eligible for free cervical smears and all enrolled and funded patients receive discounted after–hours White Cross medical care,” he said.
Mr Sethi said that people who cannot afford private health insurance would find the Centre suitable and easily accessible.
Diverse patients
“This is a huge saving for patients. Our range of services includes midwife, physio, pharmacy and lab facilities. We cater to the growing needs of a multicultural society. We believe that everyone has the right to timely and quality medical attention and our patients represent a cross-section of the society including Maori, European, Pacific Island, Indian, Asian and refugee population,” he said.
The culturally diverse staff comprises people of New Zealand, Indian, Bangladeshi, Chinese, Seychellois and Zimbabwean origin proficient in many languages.
For appointments, call (09) 6292872. The Centre is open from 830 am to 530 pm on weekdays with an extended hour (until 630 pm) on Tuesdays.
