Zim artists to benefit from discounted medical services

MaForty said a number of health service providers had come on board to aid artists with reduced prices. “We have been negotiating with medical practitioners, pharmacies and laboratories so that artists can access consultation services, drugs and laboratory tests at discounted prices and I am happy that we have found cooperating partners in Harare, Mutare, Gweru and Gwanda,” he said.

“The facility has expanded to include the spouses and children of artists who are less than 18 years. To access the facilities, artists have to register for the scheme with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) provincial offices in those towns.”

Artists will need to bring certified copies of their IDs and children’s birth certificates to register, while journalists would need to provide a valid press card and a reference letter from their editors.

“I am happy that to date over 30 artists have registered in Bulawayo and we hope with the increased number of service providers we can have more artists coming onboard to enjoy the services,” MaForty said. “Registration for the facility is free and is ongoing to allow artists to register at any time for their convenience. Registration will be approved within 72 hours after all information supplied has been verified and a confirmation letter is provided to the artists by the NACZ provincial offices.”

About 30 health centres and pharmacies have joined the drive, with Westview Clinics in Harare being the latest.

“I am coming on board to offer such services at a discounted rate to bona fide registered artists,” Westview Clinics owner and music promoter Dr Johannes Marisa said. “Local artists have become part of my family and it has always been my desire to do more to promote and preserve their legacy.”

He told local media: “This is a very noble idea considering that our artists are facing a lot of challenges as many are incapacitated financially due to COVID-19. It seems so many artists are not insured medically at the moment, leaving them highly vulnerable as accessibility to medical care becomes a challenge in times of need. Those who are still healthy and flourishing may not see the importance of medical insurance, but medical challenges are faced by everyone, anytime and on any day.”