Improving Access To Specialized Care
To ensure that students are healthy enough to thrive both in and outside the classroom, TCF’s Health Team conducts annual health screenings at our three partner schools for over 1,700 students.
Given our new partnership, this was our first time conducting health screenings at Oldeani Primary School (OPS). For each student, our Health Team conducted a thorough medical history review, performed a head-to-toe assessment, and asked about any complaints or concerns.
While at OPS, our Clinical Officer, Africanus John met a Standard 6 student named Sylvester* who was unable to pass the standard eye exam. After several additional tests, it became clear that Sylvester’s eyesight was so limited that he was nearly blind.
Knowing that Sylvester’s future would be compromised without intervention, he qualified for our Special Medical Care initiative. Africanus was quick to assure Sylvester not to worry as he explained that sometimes even the smartest of kids need help seeing!
TCF met with Sylvester’s parents who were eager to learn how to best support their son. Given the financial burden that medical care can have on families in Oldeani, Sylvester’s parents were overcome with joy to learn that TCF would cover all associated costs as well as coordinate the necessary travel, accommodation, appointments, and follow-ups.
Sylvester was referred to a nearby facility for specialized eye care where he received a new pair of customized glasses. He is now excelling in his studies and is no longer held back by his eyesight!
Without TCF’s Special Medical Care initiative or our dedication to providing preventative health services to students, Sylvester would not have had access to the resources he needed to realize his full potential.
By closing the critical gap in access to compassionate and customized medical care, TCF is creating a healthier, more equitable future for those living in the community of Oldeani.
*Consent was given for photographs and names were changed for patient confidentiality.