Many times when we tell you about free specialist clinics, they're already underway and it's too late to get an appointment. But now the U.S. Army's clinics are rolling into the Belize District and here's how you can get treatment from any of forty medical professionals who will be available. For ten days beginning on Monday the army will be holding two day clinics in Crooked Tree, Maskall, Burrell Boom, Hattieville, and Ladyville. It begins on Monday at the Crooked Tree Health Center.
Public Affairs Officer Captain Lyndon Jones says they'll be providing general medicine, basic dentistry, eye clinics, and even veterinary services. We also spoke to Staff Sergeant Alfred Young - an American born Belizean serving in the army who came to Belize to be a part of the New Horizons exercise.
Capt. Lyndon Jones,
"We're offering basic medical, optometry, dental, and we even have a veterinarian team that's going to be mobile within the community and so we're looking to have a lot of people show up."
Keith Swift,
How does it work, do I just show up? Do I need to sign up or pre-register?
Capt. Lyndon Jones,
"There is no requirement, show up and it is a first come, first serve; come one, come all and we're hoping for a lot of folks so there may be a line so just again, be there and we're excited to provide the medical service. Its going to be basic medical, dental, optometry, and veterinary services."
Keith Swift,
Tell us about yourself, I know you are a Belizean serving in the army.
Staff Sgt. Alfred Young,
"Yes I am Hattieville. I grew up in Hattieville and I am proud of Belize and I am proud of the United States coming down here to do what they are doing. So I am glad I am part of it right now giving back to my community in Hattieville. So we urge you all to come out, its free."
Keith Swift,
How important is it for you be here for this?
Staff Sgt. Alfred Young,
"Its important because I am from here. I grew up in Belize until I was about twenty two years old so, it's important. My people, my native Belizeans are going to benefit from this."
The clinics will be held in:
- Crooked Tree on April 16 and 17th,
- at the Maskall Roman Catholic School on April 18th and 19th,
- at the Burrell Boom Methodist School on April 20th and 21st,
- at the Hattieville Community Center on April 23rd and 24th,
- and at the Ladyville community center on april 25th and 26th.
The services are free of cost and clinics are held from 8 am to 4 pm. It is on a first come, first serve basis.
