TLC and Lijoye Launch Sustainable Healthcare Model under EquiCare Network

We didn’t want to do this… We love you. We always have. But change is here—and not because we want it. After 20 years of free care, the system that served 1.5 million patient visits is no longer sustainable. We're not walking away—we’re standing taller, shoulder to shoulder with you, in a new model where those who can contribute will help carry those who can’t. This isn’t goodbye to care. It’s hello to survival.  Read the full update and service list below. 7613 8814 or 7923 8814

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4 April 2025

New partnership introduces affordable, cross-subsidized care to meet national needs

The Luke Commission (TLC) and Lijoye, both members of the EquiCare Partner Network, have launched a new collaborative effort to deliver high-quality healthcare services through a sustainable, social impact model.

In alignment with board resolutions, long-time partner priorities, and the 2024 resolutions of the Parliament Select Committee, TLC is formalizing the EquiCare Partner Network—a diversified funding model built on multiple pillars of sustainability to ensure compassionate, high-quality care that can endure and scale for generations.

Why the Shift? Responding to a New Reality

For 20 years, TLC has voluntarily provided more than 1.5 million free patient visits. However, that model is no longer viable. Going forward, care will be available to patients who can contribute toward the cost of services or who are sponsored. In the face of funding challenges, TLC and its partners are accelerating the shift from dependency to durability.

A Shared Commitment to Sustainable Impact

EquiCare is a growing network of organizations committed to delivering patient-centered, sustainable, high-quality services—both locally and globally.

As part of this collaboration, TLC has reopened its doors to patients able to contribute toward the cost of their care. Consultations, diagnostics, and procedures will be offered at published service rates. However, all medications and other commodities—including snakebite antivenom and HIV/TB refills—will remain free. This is made possible through a cross-subsidized model powered by international partners and the Government through Central Medical Stores.

We remain deeply grateful to all donors who have empowered our work over the past 20 years, including the Government of Eswatini, which generously contributed E30 million in 2024—7% of TLC’s total 2024 expenditures.

Our commitment has never hinged on funding. It’s always been about showing up—with whatever we have. Serving voluntarily has been the joy of our lives, and we are thankful for every act of faithful support over the past two decades.

Matching Challenges with Solutions

Given today’s realities, we are doing our best to match challenges with solutions:

• Medications and supplies are in stock.

• Warehouses are filled with commodities that can assist the nation.

• Patients and employers continue to request access to quality care at the Miracle Campus.

• Many are already paying higher prices elsewhere for medications that TLC has in stock.

So, we have reopened with what we have—to maximize resources, meet demand, and continue to serve.

A Legal Framework to Serve Everyone

For years, patients have expressed their willingness to contribute. As part of a new Service Level Agreement (SLA) with TLC, Lijoye now provides the legal and operational framework to receive patient contributions and manage all regulatory requirements. Revenue will directly support services for the most vulnerable.

This model follows a global cross-subsidy approach: payments from contributing patients and donors fund care for those unable to pay. Thanks to two decades of trusted partnerships, all patients will continue receiving medications and essential commodities free of charge.

Current Limitations and Path Forward

At this time, funding for patients unable to pay is extremely limited. Sponsorships are reserved for snakebite antivenom, HIV/TB refills, and specialty care by appointment, including upcoming surgical cases.

This isn’t about rescuing a business model. TLC has always operated as a mission-driven, non-profit service to the nation. It’s about managing caseloads and preserving access to quality care in a strained environment. Patient contributions will help cover currently unfunded services like consultations, imaging, procedures, and inpatient care.

We are not yet able to offer free or discounted services for social grant recipients or the elderly as we recover from years of overstretch. Notably, our staff have not received salaries since January, requiring us to proceed with caution. Should local funding become available in the future, we hope to once again extend care to the most vulnerable populations at little to no cost.

How to Access Care

Visit https://lijoye.org/healthcare-wellness to view the full service list, subscription options, and care package details. For more information, please call 7613 8814 or 7923 8814.

This initiative reflects the shared vision of EquiCare Partners—where innovation meets compassion, and healthcare systems are built to last. TLC and Lijoye are working hand-in-hand to make healthcare work for everyone—not just today, but for generations to come.

For further inquiries, please contact: Lindani Sifundza, Director of Communications, The Luke Commission +268 7808 7200