Q3 Impact Story – Health Screening and Treatment Event

Good Neighbors Cambodia has been actively involved in health, particularly focusing on strengthening its effectiveness due to the impact of COVID-19 and economic instability, which have led to numerous health problems. In the community, adults save money instead of seeking health checkups or proper consultation because of job loss or instability, and their savings have been affected.  

For children, GN Cambodia supports annual health checkups, promotes good health in schools, constructs first aid rooms, raises awareness about hygiene and WASH, enhances sports activities, distributes vitamins, and provides other treatments tailored to individual needs. In health centers, GN Cambodia improves medical equipment, facilities, and staff, and installs water filtration systems to ensure quality and efficient public health services for the community.  

To restore community well-being and sustainability, in quarter 3 of 2024, GN Cambodia is also extending its support to adults in the workforce and the elderly who find it challenging to access health centers due to transportation and health service fees. This new project, named the Health Service Project – Health Screening and Treatment Event, is supported by Good Neighbors Cambodia and aims to provide health checkups and consultations to 800 people in urban communities near slum areas, which are among the least developed areas near Phnom Penh’s Capital city.

OUR INTERVENTION

Good Neighbors Cambodia has successfully partnered with Dangkao Referral Hospital to operate Health Screening and Treatment Events. After several productive meetings, we confirmed the provision of three main health services at the event for free: diabetes screening and treatment, breast and cervical cancer screening, and dental care. At the community level, we have forged strong partnerships with local authorities, the commune, and the village chief. Our dedicated GN Cambodia youth volunteers will effectively announce the event, promote health awareness, emphasize the importance of health checkups, and facilitate registrations for community members in three different communes.  

To ensure the delivery of effective health services and convenience for all participants, we diligently organized the event twice, each lasting three days, in June and July 2024. All attendees will benefit from comprehensive general health awareness sessions before receiving thorough checkups for diabetes, breast and cervical cancer, and dental care. Moreover, the event will provide impactful health education materials to elevate awareness and make a lasting impression.

MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS

The 2024 Health Screening and Treatment Event, supported by Good Neighbors Cambodia, exceeded expectations. It educated and supported 924 beneficiaries (581 female) in Sangkats Cheung Aek, Prey Sa, and Spean Thma. The event provided services for diabetes, breast and cervical cancer, and dental care at Dangkor Referral Hospital. The community expressed gratitude and happiness for gaining knowledge about their current health condition and how to maintain good health.  

An amazing incident occurred during the event – we saved a person’s life! Good Neighbors Cambodia and its partners promptly sent a community member to the hospital for critical heart disease treatment. It’s unimaginable what could have happened if she didn’t receive the health checkup services. The impact on the patient, her family, and the entire community was deeply felt and appreciated.

LESSON LEARNED

The recent experience has emphasized the importance of strong partnerships and effective communication.  

Without the support of medical staff, residents, and community youth, it would be difficult for us to reach those currently struggling with health issues and in need of assistance. Additionally, without meetings, discussions, orientation sessions, health awareness programs, and health education materials, the community’s overall health would likely suffer.

QUOTATION

“Strength comes from kindness and unity…when there is collaboration to support other, wonderful things can be achieved and life is saved”