Dis-Chem Launches First On-Site Employee Clinic to Expand Workplace Healthcare
Dis-Chem Launches First On-Site Employee Clinic to Expand Workplace Healthcare. Dis-Chem has opened its first dedicated employee clinic at its head office and distribution centre in Midrand, marking a new step in the company’s approach to workplace healthcare and employee wellness.
The facility was officially launched during Corporate Wellness Week and forms part of a broader plan to introduce similar clinics at additional distribution centres across South Africa over the next year.
Modelled on Dis-Chem’s Health Hub “store of the future” at Melrose Arch, the clinic provides a range of healthcare services, including routine consultations, maternal healthcare, immunisations and vaccinations. Where necessary, employees can also be referred to a doctor for further medical care.
The clinic is expected to serve more than 2,500 employees based at the company’s head office and distribution centre.
Dis-Chem director of people and culture Nomfundo Vilakazi said the initiative reflects a shift away from workplace wellness programmes that focus primarily on awareness campaigns and annual screenings. She said many employees delay routine healthcare because accessing medical services is not always convenient.
According to Vilakazi, creating a positive healthcare experience for employees supports the company’s broader commitment to delivering quality service to customers. She added that employees should have the opportunity to prioritise their own health if they are expected to promote health and wellness in their roles.
Clinic executive Lizeth Kruger said easier access to healthcare encourages employees to seek preventative care, manage chronic conditions and address health concerns before they become more serious.
The employee clinic also incorporates virtual healthcare services. When appropriate, employees who have been assessed by the clinic nurse can be connected to a doctor through a video consultation, providing access to additional medical guidance while combining on-site nursing care with remote medical support.
Employees who are not based at the Midrand head office or distribution centre will continue to receive healthcare through Dis-Chem’s existing clinic network.
The company said it intends to expand the employee clinic model to additional distribution centres, extending access to on-site healthcare services for more employees across its operations.
