WORLD WIDE AFRICA THE VIOCE OF THE PAN AFRICAN MOVEMENT

People's Free Medical Research Health Clinics

We believe that the government must provide, free of charge,
for the people, health facilities that will not only treat our illnesses, most of which are a result of our oppression, but that will also develop preventative medical programs to guarantee our future survival. We believe that mass health education and research programs must be developed to give all Black and oppressed people access to advanced sCienti c and medical information, so we may provide ourselves with proper medical attention and care. 

Point Six of the Black Panther Party Program's Platform of March 29, 1972, explains the reasons for the institution ofthe People's Free Medical Research Health Clinics, which provide free medical treatment and preventative medi­ cal care for the community. Private hospitals and doctors charge fees far more expensive than poor people can a ord, while public hospitals and clinics are so overcrowded and understa ed that their services are almost totally inade­ quate. The People's Free Medical Research Health Clinics o er an alternative to this problem.

The clinics provide comprehensive health care for the community. Doctors treat  patients for common physical ailments and refer them to spe­ cialists if necessary. Laboratory testing is also provided in conjunction with local hospitals.

Along with the Sickle-Cell Anemia Research Foundation, the clinics con­ duct testing and research for a cure for sickle-cell anemia.

Child health is a serious problem in the Black community, and the clinics have developed a ChildHealth Care Program to meet this community need. The Child Health Care Program provides immunizations; screening and sickle cell anemia iron de ciency anemia, and tuberculosis; referrals; and complete physi­ cal examinations as well as treatment of illnesses." HUEY P. NEWTON Black Panther