The Lorenzo Mazzoleni Medical Dispensary of Askóle
There was no medical base in Askóle before the Friends of Lorenzo Fellowship set up there even though the population had a great need for medical assistance and health education because it was subject to a series of endemic diseases caused by poor sanitation and unhealthy habits.
In order to effectively respond to the requirements of the local population for medical assistance, a population particularly affected by infectious diseases, respiratory problems and gastroenteritis, the Fellowship built the Lorenzo Mazzoleni Dispensary in 2001. Today this is the main health care centre in the area and provides medical services to around two thousand people.
The Lorenzo Mazzoleni Dispensary is a brick-walled structure built in the style of local architecture that has two consultation rooms, a waiting room, an observation ward with one bed, bathrooms, a store room and accommodation for the doctors and nurses.
The medical centre is equipped for general medical needs including some diagnostic and therapeutic equipment.
The local nurses that provide continuous health care services examine and treat patients, distribute medicines and provide first aid. The nurse assists the women giving birth, helps mothers in raising their children, provides home care to elderly women and also offers health education and care to women and children.
During the summer months voluntary doctors and nurses arrive from developed countries to bring more expertise including specialist care.
European doctors and nurses who wish to volunteer for service at the Lorenzo Mazzoleni Dispensary (for a minimum of 10 days) are invited to contact: Maria Assunta Lenotti (email address: marlen44@alice.it)
The Fellowship covers the costs of maintaining the Dispensary building, medical equipment and regular supply of medicines, the salaries of local staff and travel expenses of volunteers.