In the heart of southern Africa lies Eswatini, a nation grappling with the highest rate of HIV/AIDS infection globally, standing at a staggering 26%. In the face of this health crisis, The Luke Commission (TLC) has emerged as a beacon of hope, tirelessly working to provide comprehensive and compassionate healthcare to the most isolated and underserved populations of Eswatini.
The Foundation and Mission: Founded in 2005 by Dr. Harry and Echo VanderWal, TLC has evolved into a force of over 650 staff members, with an impressive 98% of them being Emaswati. Their mission, succinctly put, is to deliver compassionate, comprehensive healthcare to the most isolated and underserved populations of southern Africa. Regardless of age, socio-economic status, or health condition, TLC sees all humans as precious and strives to serve "Every Last One."
The Luke Commission's unwavering commitment to serving the isolated and underserved communities of Eswatini showcases the transformative power of comprehensive healthcare. Through their mobile health services, the Miracle Campus, and a united team of dedicated professionals, TLC is not just treating illnesses, but healing hearts and building a healthier, more connected future for Eswatini.
Comprehensive Healthcare Approach
TLC's approach to healthcare is holistic and patient-centric. They provide a full panel of more than 40 health services, aiming to address not only the immediate health concerns but also the broader well-being of the individuals they serve. This comprehensive model significantly reduces the stigma associated with treatment, fostering an environment of dignity and respect for each patient.
Collaboration and Coordination
TLC understands the importance of collaboration. Working with a diverse group of partners, including the Eswatini Ministry of Health and various U.S. government organizations, TLC innovates and implements best practices for comprehensive healthcare. Coordination with the Ministry of Health ensures that services are streamlined and avoid duplication, maximizing the impact on underserved communities.
Breaking Barriers to Access
One of the significant challenges faced by many Emaswati is the lack of access to health services due to transportation limitations, especially in rural communities where 70% of the population resides. To address this, TLC conducts over 100 mobile hospital outreaches each year, reaching homes, churches, factories, urban centers, schools, and community centers. Additionally, an innovative transport sponsorship program ensures that patients can reach the Miracle Campus to receive the care they need.
Mobile Health Services
TLC's mobile health services extend across all four regions of Eswatini, radiating from the Miracle Campus in central Eswatini. These outreaches, occurring nearly every week, involve a series of numbered stations where patients receive services from highly trained personnel. A scannable token ensures efficient tracking of medical history through a custom-designed electronic medical record (EMR).
Miracle Campus
A Hub of Healing: Situated in Sidvokodvo, the Miracle Campus serves as a focal point for comprehensive and specialty health services. From outpatient care to High Dependency Units (HDU) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) services, TLC addresses a wide range of medical conditions, including tuberculosis, eye conditions, and HIV/AIDS. Specialty care and surgical services, mental health, disability, counseling, rehabilitative services, emergency response, and telehealth services contribute to the holistic healthcare approach.
Support Services
Building a Small Town of Care: With 38 departments and over 500 team members, TLC operates the Miracle Campus like a small town. Beyond medical services, various departments such as agriculture, automotive, construction, and more work cohesively together to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and provide compassionate and quality healthcare services.
Ministry Overview:
The Luke Commission delivers comprehensive healthcare to Eswatini's isolated communities through outpatient, inpatient, surgical, emergency, and critical care services at the Miracle Campus. With a staff of over 650 (98% Emaswati), TLC collaborates with partners, including the Eswatini Ministry of Health and U.S. government organizations, to innovate and implement best practices in healthcare.
Prayer Request:
Pray for the success of this ministry, that their ongoing efforts effectively spread the Gospel and bring comprehensive healthcare to more isolated communities of Eswatini.
*GCF operates on the basis of Donor-Advised Funding. It is our utmost goal to meet the Donor’s desire and intent to provide support to particular GCF projects but, ultimately, the responsibility for the disbursement and ministry use of funds is the Great Commission Foundation’s.
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Since 2002, The Great Commission Foundation has enabled ministry projects to thrive by providing charity admin expertise and guidance while promoting collaboration in fulfilling the Great Commission.
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