PBAT Mandate Elders Forum sustains health outreach as Ondo elders receive treatment in Akure

The PBAT Mandate Elders Forum in Ondo State has sustained its commitment to the welfare of senior citizens with a follow-up phase of its health outreach programme, as several elderly beneficiaries are currently receiving medical treatment at Jobarteh Hospital, Akure.

The follow-up exercise comes after a successful free medical outreach earlier organised by the Forum, during which various health conditions were identified among participating elders.

Based on medical findings from the initial screening, affected beneficiaries were referred for further evaluation and treatment, which is now ongoing at the specialist hospital in Akure.

The health outreach initiative was sponsored by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, whose intervention enabled elderly citizens across Ondo State to access quality medical screening and care at no cost. The initiative aligns with broader efforts aimed at improving the wellbeing of senior citizens.

The free medical intervention covered surgical procedures and comprehensive health checks, including blood pressure and blood sugar tests, eye examinations, prostate assessments and general medical evaluations.

Speaking on the development, Chairman of the PBAT Mandate Elders Forum, Chief Erastus Akeju, expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded so far, noting that the follow-up treatment reflects the seriousness of the initiative and the commitment to ensuring that identified health challenges are adequately addressed.

According to Akeju, elders currently undergoing treatment at Jobarteh Hospital are being managed for various ailments detected during the initial outreach, with medical professionals providing close monitoring and appropriate care aimed at improving their quality of life.

The Facilitator of the Forum, Hon. Demola Ijabiyi, described the intervention as a practical demonstration of compassionate and people-focused leadership, particularly for senior citizens who often face difficulties accessing adequate healthcare.

Ijabiyi disclosed that hospital bills, including surgical costs, were fully covered by the Minister, while beneficiaries were also provided with transport support.

Beneficiaries receiving treatment expressed deep appreciation to the PBAT Mandate Elders Forum and the Interior Minister for prioritising their health and wellbeing, describing the initiative as timely and life-saving.

One of the beneficiaries, who preferred anonymity, said the health intervention was unprecedented in Ondo State and pledged personal support for the Minister in achieving his objectives.

The PBAT Mandate Elders Forum reaffirmed its resolve to continue advocating initiatives that promote the welfare, dignity and inclusion of elders in Ondo State, assuring that monitoring would continue until all beneficiaries receive adequate medical attention.