She later specialised as a PHC nurse, became a tutor, and eventually served as principal for PHC nurse training. Her expertise also contributed to the development of the curriculum used in PHC nurse education. Her remarkable career continued as Manager of Post-Basic Diploma Programmes in Limpopo Province, followed by her appointment as Director of Primary Health Care in Mopani District. She became Director of Public Health Programmes for Limpopo Province before retiring from public service. Retirement, however, did not mark the end of her mission to serve communities. Instead, she joined the Unjani Clinics network to continue making quality healthcare available to ordinary South Africans.
“Unjani Clinic Mentz officially opened its doors in October 2024 and will celebrate its second anniversary in October 2026. Since opening, the clinic has earned a reputation for delivering professional, compassionate, and affordable healthcare to the community. Our goal is to ensure that quality private healthcare is affordable, even for pensioners and families with limited income," said Sister Freda.
The clinic provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including treatment for minor ailments and common illnesses, child healthcare and immunisation, antenatal and postnatal care, management of chronic diseases, family planning, ear irrigation, blood pressure screening, cholesterol and glucose testing, haemoglobin testing, HIV testing and counselling, pregnancy testing, malaria testing, Pap smears, PSA screening, PDP wellness assessments, pre-employment medical assessments, sonar services, vitamin injections, wound care, and removal of Implanon and IUCD contraceptives.
It also serves as a CCMDD collection point, allowing patients enrolled in the programme to collect their chronic medication conveniently and free of charge. “One of the biggest concerns is that some patients refuse referrals to hospital even when specialised treatment is required. We spend time educating patients and their families about the importance of seeking treatment early, following medical advice, and attending regular health screenings," she explained.
Another major challenge is the slow response from ambulance services. "There are times when ambulances promise to come but never arrive. In emergencies, I have personally transported patients to hospital using my own vehicle because their lives come first,”she added.
Sister Freda hopes to see more men becoming proactive about their health. "Many women regularly come for screenings and blood pressure checks, but we would like to encourage more men to prioritise their health through regular check-ups and community health education."
To strengthen community health awareness, Unjani Clinic Mentz has secured regular health talk programmes on Radio Turf, where important health information will be shared with communities across the Capricorn District. Patients continue to choose Unjani Clinic Mentz because of its affordable fees, friendly service, accessibility, availability of medication, and commitment to serving the community six days a week.
Current fees include: • Consultations from R350 • Follow-up consultations R150 • Family planning services from R150 to R180
Everyone is welcome at the clinic regardless of nationality. While an identity document or passport assists with registration, no patient is turned away because they do not have these documents. "Our priority is helping people. We believe everyone deserves quality healthcare. We invite the community to visit Unjani Clinic Mentz—you will not regret it."
For enquiries or appointments, contact Unjani Clinic Mentz on 079 491 1909.