Overview

The KV Clinic has been in operation since 1998 and is a registered health service organization. Its emphasis is on treating – free of charge - unemployed, indigent or homeless adults and aged folk.

As a primary health care facility, the KV Clinic treats the usual respiratory tract infections (RTI), but also a variety of ailments such as scabies, minor injuries, fungal infections, impetigo and eczema. Typical chronic diseases treated include asthma, hypertension and diabetes.

Basic Hygiene

The clinic also is mindful of the dire need for basic hygiene. The clinic regularly distributes soap. Currently, the clinic operates from the Umbilo Methodist Church hall on Thursdays between 8am – 11am. It is anticipated that these times will be extended as the number of patients increase.

Patients

The Kathleen Voysey Clinic provides a free primary health care service to unsheltered folk, unemployed or indigent folk and aged in the Durban area who cannot afford health care. The clinic operates each Thursday morning with an average of 280 patients per month or 3000 patients per year. Our patient numbers continue to increase with an average of 7 new patients each week.

Staff

Our medical staff presently consists of three doctors, three nursing sisters and three pharmacists, all of whom are retired and work pro bono. We have a dedicated wounds dresser and have four interpreters/ administrators and a manager who are the only paid staff. The paid staff complement is 99% BEE. The clinic is also staffed by a number of other weekly volunteers bringing a staff complement to seventeen.

Funds

The Kathleen Voysey Clinic is graciously supported by funds from donors to buy medicines, equipment and dressings. Without this vital support the clinic would not be able to continue, as the clinic does not receive Government support. A team of Trustees manages the clinic and the Finances, managed by Ewing Trust Company Ltd, are audited annually.

Clinic Needs

Firstly, the current need is for increased stock-holding and range of medications. Secondly, in order to cater for the variety of ailments presented, the clinic also requires more available equipment. Thirdly, the clinic needs to secure a sustainable flow of funds and basic hygiene products such as soap.

Future Goals

The clinic is mindful that being positioned where it is best able to serve its mission is critical for future growth. The Trustees also aim to strengthen relationships with other organisations and nurture the medical expertise to continue the work of the clinic.