Healthcare at your doorstep
In 2011, Qurayat and Muscat were included.
According to Jokha, one of the major challenges is the weather and the temperature, especially in summer. “Some of the houses in Muscat are located in the mountainous areas and the climb can be tough. Some houses are remotely situated. When we began the programme, we did not have appropriate equipment, but thanks to the Ministry of Health we now have advanced dressing materials.
“It helps us in making home visits for dressing. Earlier, we had to dress the wounds daily but now we have the option of doing it on alternative days,” explained Jokha.
The main health issues faced by patients who require home healthcare are chronic diabetic hypertensive found among senior patients.
The community nurses also take care of young accident victims who are paralysed.
“Some of the patients have wounds due to pressure ulcers because they are lying on bed for a long time. Pressure ulcers require cleaning the wound regularly. We also teach the family members how to turn the patient every two hours to prevent development of ulcers in other areas.”
The message the health representatives want to convey to the community is that the facility of home healthcare service is available because there are instances where the family members are not able to bring their parents or others to the health facility.
“We are there to give care for their family. It is just not only about the patient as it is a family matter. Sometimes, the patients have problem then we coordinate with the Ministry of Social Affairs to evaluate the situation.”