As the country continues to grapple with an ailing health system characterised by shortages of critical medical equipment and medicines, a timely intervention by Optimum Health has brought relief to the main referral hospital, Princess Marina Hospital.
Optimum Health, a subsidiary of the Fazel Ismail Group, this week donated medical equipment valued at P300,000 to the country’s busiest referral hospital, answering the government’s call for collaborative efforts in strengthening healthcare delivery.
The Princess Marina Hospital, long burdened by high patient volumes and limited resources, has in recent months faced mounting pressure, with staff often forced to improvise in the face of shortages. The latest donation is expected to ease some of these challenges.
The consignment included emergency stretchers, oxygen machines, wheelchairs, oxygen regulators, surgical equipment, infant reservoir bag silicons, drip stands, hospital beds, as well as fresh fruits for patients.
Speaking during the official handover, Group representative, Fazel Ismail, said the gesture was motivated by a sense of national duty and compassion.
“This is not about me, but about the country. Most of us were born here in Marina and, sadly, for some of us, this is where we will also pass on. Seeing what is happening and reading the news about how hospitals are struggling, we felt compelled to lend a helping hand,” he said.
Ismail emphasised that the donation would not be a once-off initiative, noting that the company remains committed to supporting the health sector whenever resources permit.
“We believe that a better healthcare system directly translates to a functioning economy. When people are healthy, the nation thrives,” he added.
For her part, Hospital Superintendent, Cheniso Siku expressed gratitude for the donation, describing it as a significant boost to their daily operations.
She highlighted the persistent hardships faced by healthcare workers, including equipment shortages and overwhelming patient numbers, stating that such contributions make a tangible difference.
“With support from companies like Optimum Health, we can do much more for our patients. We encourage other private businesses to come on board and assist where they can,” she said.
