Siphesihle Zuma

Travelling long distances to access radiography services is now a thing of the past for Mofolo residents and surrounding areas, since the renovation and installation of a new digital X-Ray machine at Mofolo Community Health Centre in Soweto.
Speaking at the launch, Chief Director for Johannesburg Health District, Mogeru Morewane said she was pleased with the installation of the new machine as it will bring services closer to the community.  
"I am extremely pleased with the arrival of this innovative machinery as it will not only benefit patients who rely on this particular clinic for medical care but it will service other neighbouring facilities without this service,'' she stated.
"Furthermore, it will assist in ending delayed medical care caused by decommissioned equipment and reduce waiting times," Morewane added.
Portia Mogomotsi, Assistant Director for Radiographer at the Johannesburg Health District said: "As a person who is works at the X-ray department, I feel blessed and grateful to be part of this amazing journey.  Renovations of the entire department, installation of a new Digital X-ray machine and implementing the 24-hours X-ray services is a good milestone in the facility and the district."
According to Mogomotsi, having this machine will play a vital role in the diagnosis of pathologies and abnormalities from early TB detection through chest X-ray to quicker management of fractured bones. It will also reduce pressure and the workload in local hospitals.
Due to the addition of its leading equipment, Mofolo Community Health Centre's X-Ray Department will now operate 24 hours.
Meanwhile, public health facilities in the province commemorated International Day of Radiology on Monday 8 November by promoting radiography as a career and also to increase public awareness of diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy available. This procedure, plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and the treatment of patients and, most importantly, to ensure that radiation is kept to a minimum and therefore improve the quality of patient care.
The day was also observed to recognise the achievements in medical imaging as well to emphasise the importance of radiography and the crucial role it plays in the health care provision as well as to provide an opportunity to create awareness and educate the public about radiography.