Accessing specialist medical treatment in rural parts of South Africa is often a challenge for residents, who are among the most vulnerable in the country. To address this issue, the SA Red Cross Air Mercy Service (AMS), in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health, plays a crucial role by deploying specialists and allied healthcare workers to remote regions. These professionals provide essential treatment at facilities close to patients' homes, ensuring that they receive the care they need.
In addition to its fleet of 12 emergency aircraft, the AMS requires ground support to reach areas where air access is limited. Two Chery dealerships, Chery Pinetown and Chery Umhlanga, have stepped up to provide official support vehicles in KwaZulu-Natal. These vehicles, a Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro, will transport healthcare workers to outlying areas of the province. One vehicle will be stationed at King Shaka International Airport, north of Durban, and another at Greys Hospital in Pietermaritzburg.
Equipped with impressive features such as a ground clearance of 207mm and powerful engines, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro and Tiggo 7 Pro will enable healthcare professionals to reach remote areas effectively. These ground services will operate five days a week, from Mondays to Fridays.
Farhaad Haffejee, CEO of AMS, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with Chery and emphasized the importance of partnerships in ensuring equitable access to healthcare. He highlighted the significant impact that these vehicles will have on rural communities, contributing directly to changing and saving lives.
The rural health outreach service in KwaZulu-Natal faced challenges when it was terminated in 2020. However, it was relaunched in June 2023, underscoring the importance of such initiatives for rural communities. Despite funding challenges, AMS remains committed to seeking support from the private sector to continue its mission of improving healthcare access for all South Africans.
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