MEDICAL CAMP AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAM

Building Health Through Cooperation: Highlights from the Rwerere Medical Camp

In June 2025, KAMACOS, in partnership with DGRV and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, commemorated International Cooperative Day with a transformative medical camp in Rwerere Town Council, Rukungiri District. Over two days, the grounds of Rwerere Church of Uganda became a hub of healing, hope, and community resilience.

Reaching the Underserved

The camp served 2,708 patients, 2025 women, and 683 men, offering free consultations, diagnostics, treatment, and health education. From malaria screenings to dental extractions, eye examinations to acupuncture, the services reflected KAMACOS's commitment to inclusive, accessible healthcare.

Services Delivered:
General consultations: 949 cases treated for common illnesses, including hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, and respiratory infections.

Dental Care: 114 patients received extractions, periodontal treatment, and referrals

Eye Care: 303 exams identified presbyopia, conjunctivitis, and cataracts

Acupuncture: 35 patients treated, mostly women over 50 years of Age

Lab Testing: 599 diagnostics, including HIV, syphilis, ulcers, and diabetes

Medication Dispensing: 727 patients received essential drugs free of charge

Health Education & Community Engagement:

Interactive workshops reached over 850 participants, covering hygiene, nutrition, reproductive health, and disease prevention. More than 300 individuals received confidential counseling, and 107 were referred for specialized care.

 

Lessons and Insights:

Older adults face a high burden of dental and eye complications

Non-communicable diseases are prevalent and require sustained attention

Women are more likely to seek care, highlighting gendered health behaviors

Presbyopia and helminth infections signal gaps in vision care and sanitation

Challenges Faced:

Despite the camp's success, resource limitations led to the cancellation of cervical cancer screening and minor surgeries. The absence of an ambulance and stockouts of essential medicines underscored the need for stronger logistical support.

 

Looking Ahead:

KAMACOS Plans to;

Extend the duration and frequency of future camps

Prioritize specialized services like dental and ophthalmic care

Strengthen referral systems and community health volunteer training

Mobilize support for age-specific and gender-responsive cooperative health models

This medical camp was more than a health intervention; it was a celebration of cooperative power, a testament to what partnerships can achieve, and a bold step toward health equity in Uganda.

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