The Institute of Research and Community Service (LPPM) of Diponegoro University continuously held a free medical treatment event. This free medical treatment was intended for the residents of Wonorejo Village, Karanganyar District, Demak Regency, Central Java, and was held on Sunday (4/3/2024) morning from 08:00 to 14:00 WIB. This activity is part of the community service program by LPPM Undip in several areas in Demak Regency affected by floods.
Flash floods that hit 39 villages in 8 districts, Demak Regency, Central Java, from early February 2024 until early March 2024, are still being felt. Several public facilities, especially health facilities, still need repair to function fully. The post-flood effect is what prompted LPPM Undip to organize community service in the form of free medical treatment, considering the health of flood-affected residents needs special attention.
“Two weeks ago, Wonorejo was hit by floods as high as the roofs of the houses. This area is among the worst affected by floods. The nearest community health center here was also flooded, and until now, it has not been able to provide optimal services. That is why we initiated free medical treatment,” explained Dr. Sri Winarni, M.Kes., the Chairperson and Coordinator Doctor.
Three doctors, six medical personnel, four pharmacists, and fourteen volunteers were deployed to serve the residents of Wonorejo. 257 Wonorejo residents took advantage of the free medical treatment. Most of the residents are elderly. The average complaints of patients were itching, shortness of breath, dizziness, and diabetes.
“The diseases complained of are mostly skin diseases due to exposure to floodwater, upper respiratory tract infections, hypertension, and diabetes because some community health posts (Posbindu) were not functioning due to the flood, so residents could not undergo regular check-ups,” continued Dr. Winarni.
The free medical treatment provided by LPPM Undip is comprehensive. Patients who seek treatment not only receive anthropometric examinations (height, weight, body mass), blood pressure checks, blood laboratory tests, and health consultations by doctors but also receive free medicines and vitamins. Patients who are referred to hospitals when necessary are also transported free of charge with LPPM Undip’s mobile clinic. (Ninok Hariyani)
