Pixie DustZIMBABWE | The Government, in collaboration with a supplier of cancer treatment equipment, is actively addressing the repair of machines at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and Mpilo Central Hospital. This initiative, which has been in motion for about two years, is part of the National Cancer Control Plan aimed at enhancing cancer services and training for health providers.
During a session in the National Assembly, Health and Child Care Deputy Minister Sleiman Timios Kwidini provided insights into the measures being taken to improve services for cancer patients at Mpilo and Parirenyatwa hospitals. Bulawayo North MP, Minenhle Gumede, raised concerns about the state of the radiotherapy cancer treatment and diagnostic machines at these hospitals and inquired about repair timelines.
In response, Deputy Minister Kwidini revealed that Government had proactively engaged VARIAN, the equipment supplier, to address the repair of cancer machines at Parirenyatwa and Mpilo Hospitals. He expressed satisfaction with the progress, stating that VARIAN engineers were diligently working to restore the functionality of these crucial machines.
Moreover, the Ministry has established a three-year maintenance contract with VARIAN to ensure ongoing support and maintenance for the machines. This contract includes regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and prompt repairs if necessary, aimed at sustaining the functionality of the cancer machines in the long term.
By partnering with VARIAN and implementing a maintenance contract, the Ministry is demonstrating its commitment to providing continuous and improved cancer care services. Properly functioning equipment is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, ultimately leading to better outcomes for cancer patients.
Deputy Minister Kwidini emphasized that the Ministry would closely monitor the repair progress and implementation of the maintenance contract. This commitment aims to enhance the quality of healthcare services and support the well-being of patients in need of cancer treatments. Early detection, he noted, plays a crucial role in comprehensive cancer treatment strategies.
