Community health workers equipped with digital blood pressure machines and glucometers were able to take measurements during household visits and determine whether patients were adhering to treatment plans and meeting targets.
In communities where patients and community members had low awareness of the signs and symptoms of NCDs, the Medtronic Foundation supported health education on hypertension and diabetes, how to interpret blood pressure and blood glucose values, nutritional practices, exercise, and availability of relevant health services.
Dr. Sanele Madela is a health worker supported by the Medtronic Foundation in his commitment to provide diabetes and hypertension care to the underserved in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
The home visits offered by health workers supported by the Medtronic Foundation encourage patients to adopt healthier lifestyles.
In South Africa, the Medtronic Foundation supported a shift toward a model of integrated care for all, with greater attention to diagnosis and management of chronic conditions.
Photos: Medtronic Foundation