The Stu
dents’ Union of Semmelweis University organized a series of health screening examinations and tests in the Subcarpathia (Kárpátalja) region (north-east Hungary, partly in Ukraine) in the framework of a programme initiated by the National Conference of Student Unions. The screening examinations, tests and consultations were free of charge for the participants. The team of Semmelweis University consisted of 54 medical students and 3 physicians. During the four days approximately 5-600 patients were examined in six different communities. Besides screening examinations, the participants could ask for blood glucose test, ECG and dental check-up as well.
“This endeavour was organized this year for the first time in cooperation with the university in Ungvár (Uzhgorod). The major aim was to provide help for the citizens of the communities who are mostly Hungarian. With the help of the medical students the citizens of the region had the opportunity to participate in screening examinations and tests, which in general are not necessarily accessible for them. Thus almost 600 patients participated in this event in six communities of Subcarpathia (Kárpátalja), namely Ungvár (Uzhgorod), Tiszakeresztúr, Péterfalva, Zápszony, Badaló and Nagydobrony.”, said Marcell Budai, president of the Students’ Union of Semmelweis University.
Those patients with test results other than the average/normal had to have a consultation session with one of the resident doctors. As Marcell Budai said, the participants also received dietetic suggestions and useful information related to the use of medications. Apart from this the participants could practise useful health maintenance exercises from physiotherapists. According to the president of the Students’ Union of Semmelweis University almost 80 % of the examined patients had high blood pressure.
“Mostly adults were interested in the free examinations. The organizers prepared a playing area, gifts and prevention material for the children. The series of examinations and tests were financed by the own resources of the Students’ Union of Semmelweis University, the overall costs were almost 5 million HUF. We would like to continue this endeavour in other regions nearby where the access to an appropriate quality patient care is rather limited. The National Conference of Student Unions, who initiated this pioneer endeavour, would also like to continue this programme by reaching other transborder regions as well.”, expressed Marcell Budai.
Eszter Keresztes
Photo: National Conference of Student Unions
Translated by: Katalin Romhányi
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