Parliamentary clinic – Holistic purpose and function

DR. ANDREAS OBHOLZER WRITES:A health clinic, for emergencies in Parliament, is a progressive move.However, its function should not be limited to nurses on site and an ambulance on call.The mandate of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, in 1990, under Dr. Nicky Iyambo (Minister) and Dr. Solly Amadhila (PS) was to emphasise the importance of primary health care (PHC) – through the promotion of a healthy lifestyle, prevention of disease, screening for red flags, treatment, rehabilitation and palliation from conception (in the ante natal clinic) to grave.PHC is not confined to women and children. It involves all people.Having a clinic, waiting for an emergency to happen, is reactive – too little, too late. It is like a tow-truck waiting at a major road junction for an accident to happen. Prevention is better.Members of the National Assembly and National Council are a national asset, serving the voters, by debating matters of national interest for the common good.It is desirable to have a healthy mind, in a healthy body. Movement of mind and body is life, keep moving and live. Your health is your single most important asset in life.Without health, you cannot productively contribute or enjoy the fruits of your labour.I have twice spoken to the Honourable Members of the National Assembly on induction of new members, after the last two elections. I have 40 years’ experience as a practicing physician, manager of the Windhoek State Hospital Complex, a PSEMAS health consultant and as a patient. I have insight, oversight, foresight and hindsight – experience.My main message was, if you cannot see your toes, standing straight with your chin on your chest, you cannot see Vision 2030.You will suffer morbidity, the metabolic syndrome, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, arthralgia, reflux, snoring and cancer. Your quality of life will go downhill and your life expectancy will decrease.Covid-19 harvested many weakened people in 2021.The nurses at this clinic should set up a confidential database of every member’s medical history, present health, measurements, test results, red flags – and monitor and advise doctors about treatment.Diabetes II is reversible with diet, in two thirds of cases. Many members are past middle-age, and suffer from the diseases of “death style”. This is compounded by many pills (poly pharmacy), which have adverse reactions.Get back to the drawing board and have the courage and discipline to implement change you can believe in, and live with.For this you need the attitude to be the master of your destiny.

Parliamentary clinic – Holistic purpose and function

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Republikein 2025-05-01

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Parliamentary clinic – Holistic purpose and function

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