A fact-finding visit to the Eastern Cape was undertaken in November, to understand the local haemophilia situation and identify ideas for a potential new project in 2012.  Whilst the NNHF hopes to apply some of the learning gained from its project already taking place in KwaZuluNatal, it is focusing on tailoring a potential new project to the regional needs and local situation that will improve care for people with haemophilia.

Key needs were identified during visits to eight hospitals in Mthatha, Queenstown, Cofimvaba, East London and Port Elizabeth. With only 289 people diagnosed with haemophilia in an expected patient population of 800, improving diagnosis was identified as one priority. This requires training of healthcare professionals at all levels including at community level, so that more patients will eventually be diagnosed and have access to care in proximity of their home towns.

The Department of Health was identified as a key supporter in achieving sustainable haemophilia care in this province. Its endorsement could, for example, help enable the haemophilia nurses - who are the first point of contact for all patients – to do outreach in collaboration with primary health care providers.