Latest news with #GautengDepartmentofHealth
IOL News
a day ago
- Health
- IOL News
Transforming healthcare: Gauteng digitises 800,000 patient files at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital
Gauteng Health MEC, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has welcomed the digitisation of the more than 800, 000 patient files at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Acedemic Hospital on Tuesday. Image: Supplied, Gauteng Department of Health The Gauteng Department of Health MEC, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has hailed the digitisation of more than 800,000 patient files at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) in Soweto. On Tuesday, the department hosted a media breakfast to reflect on the digitisation of these records at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, with plans to extend the process to other key healthcare facilities. Nkomo-Ralehoko underscored the transformative nature of the project, which replaces traditional paper-based medical records with a secure, efficient, and accessible digital filing system "This improves service delivery, strengthens data security, and ensures compliance with privacy standards. Beyond technology, the initiative has empowered 100 young people from local communities through skills development and employment, driving economic inclusion and ownership. These individuals will now become team leaders as the project is taken to other hospitals. Over the next 36 months, we're digitising at least 800 million patient records across all 37 Gauteng hospitals," she said. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ The project benefited from a partnership between the department and the Mintgroup as a way to roll out the program to hospitals such as Thelle Mogoerane, Tembisa Tertiary, Steve Biko Academic, Sebokeng, and the Tambo Memorial hospitals. The milestone, which was noted during a media breakfast hosted at CHBAH, forms part of a bold digital transformation drive to improve efficiency, patient care, and system accountability across 37 public hospitals in the province. Nkomo-Ralehoko said this was a great milestone for the province of Gauteng and all its patients who will benefit from an efficient file management system.. "This milestone for the 800,000 patient files here at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital Academic Hospital is part of a pilot project as it lays the foundation for upscaling the initiative to other hospitals. This is not just a typical achievement. It is a leap forward in restoring the dignity of patients in improving the desirability of the public healthcare system," she stated. The MEC indicated that the department intends to integrate these records into the broader Health Information System (HIS) and expanding supporting technologies such as Queue Management Systems and Radiology Image Archiving (PACS). "These innovations further enhance patient flow, reduce overcrowding and improve the overall service turnaround times. The digitised files representing more than 42 million pages are now stored in a secure cloud environment, accessible to authorised healthcare professionals," she added.
IOL News
2 days ago
- Health
- IOL News
Gauteng Health Department urges ex-mineworkers to register for compensation benefits
The Gauteng Health Department has called on former mineworkers to register for the Ex-Mine Security Benefits Programme in Ekurhuleni. Image: File Former mineworkers who retired from the industry due to occupational diseases, without receiving compensation, could soon be able to claim their long-awaited benefits. The Gauteng Department of Health has called on the former miners to register for Phase Two of the Ex-Mine Security Benefits Programme in Ekurhuleni. The registration process started today (July 21) and is expected to run until August 22. The families of deceased mineworkers may also be eligible to claim benefits. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading The initiative, in partnership with the Medical Bureau for Occupational Diseases (MBOD) and other stakeholders, aims to trace, register, and screen ex-mine workers with occupational diseases, ensuring that those who qualify can access their unclaimed benefits and medical surveillance. Many former mineworkers left the industry due to occupational lung diseases, such as silicosis and tuberculosis (TB), without receiving the compensation due to them. In April, Parliament was told that the government was struggling to trace almost 75,000 former miners who were owed R1.3 billion in compensation for lung diseases contracted at work. Presenting the Mines and Works Compensation Fund's 2025/26, Health Department Compensation Commissioner, Barry Kistnasamy, told the Portfolio Committee on Health that most of the miners were assessed more than two decades ago, during an era characterised by poor record keeping and extensive delays. Kistnasamy said that despite the legal requirement that clinical records be retained for 40 years, few records were available for older claims. The commissioner said a total of 66,000 claims approved before 2005 have yet to be paid because the Compensation Commission for Occupational Diseases (CCOD) does not know how to contact the beneficiaries, or even if they are still alive. Department spokesperson Motalatale Modiba said Phase One of the project was successfully implemented in the West Rand district, where over 9,000 individuals were reached, with about 539 people completing the Benefit Medical Examination tests. 'It is crucial for ex-mining workers and their families to understand that addressing eligibility issues is essential to ensure that deserving individuals receive the benefits they are entitled to,' he said. Modiba said the former mineworkers and their families may reach out to the MBOD call centre to check if they have any unclaimed benefits. He said medical interventions and compensation benefits for occupational lung diseases and other occupation-related illnesses are covered in the security benefits. He added that there was potential compensation for mineworkers who did 'risk work' at one of the 82 qualifying gold mines between March 12, 1965, and December 10, 2019, and who contracted silicosis or work-related TB from their work. Modiba said there is also potential compensation for deceased former mineworkers, which their next of kin or dependents could claim on their behalf. The claims would be made from Tshiamiso Trust. 'South African Law allows for anyone who has done risk work on the mines and works to have his or her heart and lungs removed after death in order to identify potential compensable occupational lung diseases (OLD). This will only be done if the next of kin provides written consent. The organs are examined for the presence of OLD, which are caused by working in mines or working for extended periods of time. 'If the deceased was found to be suffering from a compensable OLD at the time of their death, their next of kin may potentially receive compensation. It is important to note that this information should be discussed with your family, and that not every case that is examined qualifies for compensation,' said Modiba. During the registration weeks, mineworkers, claimants and potential beneficiaries are invited to register with their latest contact and address information, and to also check eligibility for benefit medical examinations, unpaid occupational lung disease claims, and other known unpaid social security benefits. Modiba said the communities would be requested to bring documents such as Makhulu-skop (mineworker's identity card), identity or passport documents, and any documentation received from the mine.
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Health
- The Citizen
Gauteng Hospitals achieve record 806 surgeries on Mandela Day
The Gauteng Department of Health has introduced South Africa's first Treatment Time Guarantees system. Gauteng public hospitals made medical history on Friday by performing 806 surgical procedures in a 12-hour surgical marathon across 29 institutions. The achievement marks the third edition of the Mandela Day Surgical Marathon initiative and represents a significant increase from the 742 surgeries performed in the previous year. According to the Gauteng Department of Health, the province has become the first in South Africa to introduce Treatment Time Guarantees (TTGs), a framework designed to eliminate unnecessary delays in surgical care. Surgical marathon continues The surgical procedures were completed by 7pm on 18 July, surpassing last year's performance by 64 operations. 'The surgical marathon will continue, however, to run until the end of July 2025,' said Motalatale Modiba, Head of Communication at the Gauteng Department of Health. This year's procedures focused on critical specialities, including cleft palate repair, cataract surgery, colostomy reversal, and prostate procedures. The operations aimed to enhance patient independence and overall well-being, alongside general surgical interventions. MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasised the initiative's growing success. 'Since we embarked on the surgical marathons three years ago, each year we surpass the target of the previous year as we strive to do more to make a difference. The work we do during this period is over and above the normal elective surgeries done by our facilities,' she explained. ALSO READ: Gauteng gets R67bn to fix hospitals, slash waiting times and rescue public health Pioneering treatment time guarantees framework The Gauteng Department of Health has introduced South Africa's first Treatment Time Guarantees system. The innovative approach establishes maximum allowable waiting times for various surgical procedures based on urgency and clinical condition. 'This innovative framework is implemented to improve access to surgical care, promote transparency and strengthen public health accountability,' Modiba stated. The strategic reform aims to streamline surgical care access, prioritise patient needs and hold healthcare facilities accountable for timely treatment delivery. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health dismisses linen shortage claims at Bheki Mlangeni Hospital Historic healthcare transformation Speaking at the TTG launch, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko highlighted the province's leadership role. 'Gauteng is taking a historic step in transforming surgical care by introducing the Treatment Time Guarantees. We are leading the way by ensuring that patients receive the surgeries they need without unnecessary delays. 'This framework empowers us to actively manage waiting lists and enhance the quality of care for all,' she said. The MEC added that the initiative draws from international best practices. 'This groundbreaking innovation underscores our commitment to improved healthcare delivery in Gauteng, drawing from global best practices while tailoring the TTG framework to meet the unique needs of our healthcare system,' she noted. ALSO READ: New board members across Gauteng hospitals Facility upgrades enhance patient care Alongside the surgical marathon, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko reopened the newly refurbished Urology Unit at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. The upgraded facility can now offer safer, more precise prostate biopsies without requiring a surgical theatre. Additionally, the Helen Joseph Hospital Breast Centre of Excellence has also been reopened with enhanced capabilities. Nkomo-Ralehoko said the upgraded facility will improve early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer through advanced imaging and testing equipment. READ NEXT: DA disputes Gauteng health's denial of hospital linen shortage
Eyewitness News
3 days ago
- Health
- Eyewitness News
Gauteng Health Dept conducted 806 surgical procedures on Mandela Day
JOHANNESBURG - The Gauteng Department of Health said it conducted 806 surgical procedures on Nelson Mandela Day and plans to continue with mass surgeries until the end of July. Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko praised healthcare workers for their commitment, saying staff across the department demonstrated their dedication to saving lives in honour of Madiba. She also announced the official opening of a newly refurbished breast cancer centre at Helen Joseph Hospital. Nkomo-Ralehoko said the facility will enhance early detection and diagnosis, while also expanding treatment services. 'I am excited again because people are starting to assist those people that are suffering on breast cancer. They are assisting them there a quite a number of things that when you see those people that are not well in the communities, having problems when now we know that Mandela Day will be the day we target those specific cases.'
IOL News
3 days ago
- Health
- IOL News
Gauteng hospitals perform over 800 surgeries in 12 hours for Mandela Day
Medical teams across 29 Gauteng public hospitals performed over 800 surgeries in just 12 hours as part of the Mandela Day Surgical Marathons Image: Pixabay/pexels In a powerful tribute to Nelson Mandela's legacy, Gauteng's public hospitals successfully performed over 800 life-changing surgeries on Mandela Day, July 18. According to the Gauteng Department of Health, 806 surgical procedures were completed across 29 institutions within 12 hours, surpassing the 742 surgeries conducted in 2024. 'This is 64 surgeries more than was the case in 2024 (742). The surgical marathon will continue, however, continue to run until the end of July 2025,' the Department said. The initiative, now in its third year, focused on critical surgeries such as cleft palate repair, cataract surgery, colostomy reversal, and prostate procedures. These were performed alongside general surgeries to improve the independence and well-being of patients across the province. MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, praised the collaborative effort. 'Since we embarked on the surgical marathons three years ago, each year we surpass the target of the previous year as we strive to do more to make a difference. The work we do during this period is over and above the normal elective surgeries done by our facilities,' said Nkomo-Ralehoko. The Mandela Day Surgical Marathons were supported by healthcare professionals, university students, and partners such as the Smile Foundation and Dr SK Matseke Hospital. In a major development to further healthcare delivery, Gauteng also became the first provincial health department in South Africa to introduce Treatment Time Guarantees (TTGs), a framework designed to reduce surgical waiting times and ensure accountability in patient care. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 'This innovative framework is implemented to improve access to surgical care, promote transparency and strengthen public health accountability,' the statement noted. TTGs establish maximum allowable waiting times based on urgency and clinical need. Speaking at the launch, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko highlighted the impact. 'Gauteng is taking a historic step in transforming surgical care by introducing the Treatment Time Guarantees. We are leading the way by ensuring that patients receive the surgeries they need without unnecessary delays. This framework empowers us to actively manage waiting lists and enhance the quality of care for all.' She further emphasised that this groundbreaking innovation underscores our commitment to improved healthcare delivery in Gauteng, drawing from global best practices while tailoring the TTG framework to meet the unique needs of our healthcare system. The province also marked additional milestones, including the reopening of a newly refurbished Urology Unit at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. The unit is now capable of conducting safer, more precise prostate biopsies without surgical theatres. Moreover, Helen Joseph Hospital's Breast Centre of Excellence has been upgraded to improve imaging, testing, and early diagnosis of breast cancer. 'This facility will expand treatment services and provide a welcoming, dignified space for care, bringing hope to patients and families during their most vulnerable moments,' the Department said. IOL News
