Note to Editors: Please note Dr Keeka, MPL sound bite in English
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) welcomes Tuesday night’s long overdue unannounced oversight visit by Health MEC, Nomagugu Simelane, to Wentworth Hospital.
The move comes after our engagement with the MEC, during which both parties raised serious concerns surrounding the facility along with the need for an unannounced visit.
More than a year ago, I conducted my own unannounced oversight visit to the hospital. My findings were subsequently conveyed to National Health Ombud, Professor Taole Mokoena, whom I also met with to convey my observations directly (view here). My contributions were added to the Ombuds investigation into the facility
The DA is aware that the Ombud’s investigation has now been concluded and that a preliminary report is currently being finalised. Once completed, the report will be circulated to relevant parties for input before the final report and its recommendations is made public. The MEC and her department will be held to account based on the content.
Many of the concerns repeatedly raised by patients, staff, and the community were effectively confirmed by the MEC herself following her visit to Wentworth Hospital. Numerous recent public reports paint an extremely troubling picture and include;
• A woman giving birth in the hospital parking area due to access challenges
• Allegations surrounding the rape of a psychiatric patient
• Delayed responses and other alarming accounts related to the casualty unit and;
• Widespread complaints around the conduct of the contracted private security company, which has caused significant distress to patients and members of the public.
The DA is aware that a hospital board was recently appointed after a prolonged absence of such a structure to serve as a bridge between the community and the institution. While this is welcomed, there remains considerable work ahead to restore confidence, accountability and proper governance at the facility.
As a constructive and committed partner within KZN’s Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), the DA will continue engaging the MEC on this matter. We will also work through Legislature internal processes to strengthen oversight by ensuring that KZN’s Health portfolio committee is afforded additional opportunities to conduct focused oversight interventions at affected facilities.
The wellbeing, dignity, and safety of every person who relies on KZN’s healthcare system cannot be compromised under any circumstances.