Kant Kaw Ni Ni, 1st February 2025 

The "Sae Ta Nar" Arakha Public Welfare Clinic, providing free medical tests for displaced individuals and locals in Ponnagyun Township, is now imposing fees for treatment because of a lack of funds. 

Founded by Arakanese artist R Gree along with the Phyu Sin Yin Khwin Foundation, the clinic has been offering medical services in the region since November 2024. 

Run by a group of five volunteers, which includes a paramedic, the clinic has assisted more than 200 displaced persons and locals. 

"Based on our medical records, our clinic has offered medical assistance to over two hundred individuals, including displaced persons and locals from surrounding villages. We do not bill for medical tests," stated R Gree, a founder of the clinic. 

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He mentioned that the clinic is now offering medical care even though its construction is not finished. Because of financial difficulties, they are imposing fees for medication. Nonetheless, he highlighted that the clinic intends to provide free treatment as soon as sufficient funding is obtained. 

At present, the clinic's rooms and beds remain unfinished, and we do not have enough funding. We have not arrived at a stage where we can provide treatment completely at no cost. If we obtain sufficient funding, we will offer treatment at the clinic for free and also aim to carry out field studies while providing free care to those displaced in IDP camps," stated R Gree. 

The clinic is currently addressing common ailments such as fever, flu, diarrhea, and skin conditions among displaced individuals, utilizing the available medications to the fullest extent. 

The creators of the clinic also intend to set up an Olympus CH Microscope, intended to serve as a diagnostic instrument for HIV and Hepatitis B and C. 

Displaced individuals in Arakan State are encountering significant health issues, such as skin disorders and diarrhea, as a result of limited water supply and polluted drinking water. This scenario highlights the increasing necessity for self-help groups that can offer free medical care amid the continuing conflict. 

Certain self-help groups are striving to offer free healthcare to displaced individuals and local residents, but their impact is restricted by funding challenges.