Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, but for many patients with bleeding disorders in South Africa, it’s a daily struggle. Whether it’s transportation costs, the distance to treatment centers, or limited healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, patients face significant barriers in accessing the care they need. That’s where SAHF’s transport program comes in. For over a decade, through the our transport program, we’ve supported patients with bleeding disorders to ensure they never miss critical treatment appointments, even during the challenging times of the pandemic. Our partnerships with Novo Nordisk, Roche, and the National Bioproducts Institute have made this program possible, delivering healthcare access to over 30 patients each month.
Advocacy in Action: How We’ve Made a Difference
Over the years, SAHF has remained committed to ensuring that every patient has access to the treatment they need, regardless of their location or financial status. Our advocacy efforts have led to the creation of the Novo Go Transport Program, a partnership with Novo Nordisk that ran from 2012 to 2013. This initiative provided crucial transport funding for patients, allowing them to travel to treatment centers for their appointments and rehabilitation programs.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for support became even more urgent. With lockdowns and limited access to transportation, patients living far from treatment centers in the Western Cape faced even greater challenges. That’s when Chris, a person living with a bleeding disorder and a dedicated volunteer, stepped up to deliver treatment to patients who could no longer make the journey themselves. Chris’ actions, made possible through the donations by our industry partners Roche and Novo Nordisk, became a lifeline for many during those difficult times.
The Power of Community and Support
What started as a transport program to cover travel costs quickly grew into something more, an embodiment of community and solidarity. Patients like Chris and many others became the heart of our advocacy efforts. Volunteers, donors, and industry partners came together to ensure that even during the most challenging times, patients received the care they needed.
This is the essence of SAHF’s advocacy work: making sure no one is left behind. With the generous support of our donors, partners, and volunteers, we’ve been able to help patients access the care they deserve.
We Want to Hear Your Story
Have you benefited from programs like Novo Go or the SAHF transport program? Your story matters. By sharing your experience, you can help raise awareness about the challenges patients face and the positive impact that community-driven initiatives can have.
If you’ve used have been supported by SAHF’s transport initiatives, we want to hear from you. Share your journey and help inspire others.
To share your story, email us at: sahfmedia@haemophilia.org.za.
