In a decisive move to champion the health of members and bolster the Government of Zimbabwe’s fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the Premier Service Medical Aid Society (PSMAS) is leaving no member behind. Through its innovative Premier Lifestyle program, PSMAS is redefining healthcare by shifting from reactive treatment to proactive prevention, taking vital screening services directly to members at their workplaces.
As Zimbabwe’s leading medical aid society, PSMAS recognizes that a healthy nation is built on a foundation of prevention. That’s why it is proud to partner with member organizations across the country to bring essential health checks right to member’s doorsteps. PSMAS believes that convenience is key to encouraging everyone to take that crucial first step in managing their health.
Dedicated teams have already rolled out the program to numerous institutions, including the Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Services, Zimbabwe Republic Police, Judicial Services Commission, Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, the Ministries of Primary and Secondary Education, and Local Government and Public Works. This is just the beginning. The Society is systematically moving across all centres and institutions to ensure every single member has access to these life-saving services.
Since the inception of this intensified drive, PSMAS teams have visited Harare, Marondera, Bindura, Masvingo, Mutare, Bulawayo, Beitbridge, Mvuma, Kwekwe, Chinhoyi and Gweru. The response has been tremendous, with sights set on conducting 30,000 tests in the first quarter alone. So far, nearly 6,000 general screenings have been conducted, alongside over 3,000 breast cancer screenings, nearly 2,500 cervical cancer checks, and more than 1,700 prostate cancer tests. These numbers represent more than just statistics; they represent members who have been empowered with knowledge about their health.
This targeted, institutional approach represents a significant evolution from previous outreach programs. While PSMAS will continue to host community-based outreaches and dedicated Wellness Weeks as a mop-up exercise, this new strategy ensures the Society proactively reaches every member, rather than waiting for them to come to PSMAS.
“The idea is to leave no stone unturned,” explains PSMAS Population Health and Wellness Coordinator, Dr Tapiwa Chiworeka. “We want to reach out to every member by providing them with an opportunity to assess their health status and detect potential risks before they develop into serious conditions. Prevention and early detection are the most powerful tools we have in the fight against non-communicable diseases.”
These NCDs including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and various cancers which pose a growing health challenge in Zimbabwe, currently accounting for a third of all deaths. Many of these conditions are linked to lifestyle choices and can be managed if caught early or even prevented. PSMAS is committed to changing this statistic by empowering its members with the tools for early detection.
As part of the Society’s continued focus on preventative healthcare, the wellness program is structured as an annual benefit available to all members under the Society’s wellness package. This means as a PSMAS member regardless of plan you are on, you are entitled to:
- General Screenings: At least once a year for blood pressure, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI).
- Cancer Screenings: Regular checks for prostate and breast cancer, and
- Cervical Cancer Screenings: As per national guidelines (every 3-5 years depending on the test).
For those identified with risk factors or diagnosed with a condition during screenings, PSMAS is there for the long haul. Members are supported through medication and comprehensive care programmes designed to help them effectively manage their health and mitigate future risks.
If the PSMAS team hasn’t visited your organization yet, speak to your employer or HR department about hosting a PSMAS wellness day. In the meantime, take advantage of the PSMAS outreaches and wellness weeks. Follow PSMAS social media handles to know where and when teams will be in your area.
Take control of your health today, because with PSMAS, your well-being is our priority.
