The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) launched the ‘Big Heart Mobile Medical Services’ on Unguja island in Zanzibar, aiming to treat 20,000 patients annually. This initiative is part of a partnership between Aster Volunteers and TBHF, which already operates in eight countries and has helped almost 180,000 beneficiaries through medical camps. The project has expanded to four more countries this year: Zanzibar, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, with a commitment to treat 250,000 patients in remote areas with limited access to healthcare over the next 10 years.
The mobile clinic in Zanzibar will provide services such as blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI checks, as well as virtual consultations with specialists and health talks in multiple languages. The clinic is operated in collaboration with local partners, including the Zanzibar Ministry of Health and trained medical professionals from Aster Hospitals in the UAE and India. The clinics run on solar energy to reduce carbon footprint while providing sustainable healthcare solutions. Plans are also in place to launch similar clinics in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Nepal in 2024, with future plans for Uganda and Rwanda.
Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of TBHF, emphasizes the importance of access to healthcare as a fundamental right for all individuals and nations. She highlights the responsibility of the world to ensure that essential healthcare services are accessible to everyone, especially women and children. With the support of Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, TBHF remains dedicated to sustainable humanitarian projects that drive positive change where needed. Dignitaries who attended the ceremony included Hon. Nassor Mazrui, Minister of Health, Zanzibar, and Ms Alisha Moopen, Managing Director, Aster DM Healthcare.
The ‘Big Heart Mobile Medical Services’ initiative in Zanzibar is part of a larger effort to provide basic healthcare services to underserved communities across different countries. The project, which was originally intended to run for five years, has been extended to a 10-year tenure with plans to expand to more countries. By partnering with local authorities and healthcare professionals, the mobile clinics aim to reach the most vulnerable populations and provide them with quality medical care. The use of solar energy also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility in healthcare delivery.
Through a combination of medical camps, virtual consultations, health talks, and awareness campaigns, the mobile clinics aim to address a wide range of healthcare needs in remote areas with limited access to services. The involvement of trained medical staff from Aster Hospitals in the UAE and India, along with volunteer doctors, ensures that patients receive comprehensive and high-quality care. The project’s success in Zanzibar serves as a model for future clinics in other countries, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation in improving healthcare access for all. With ongoing support and dedication, the ‘Big Heart Mobile Medical Services’ initiative is set to make a lasting impact on communities in need.
