Latest news with #GautengHealth
The Citizen
5 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
The Citizen
16-07-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Free scoliosis surgery changes young woman's life in Meadowlands
Moved by a patient's condition and resilience, orthopaedic surgeon Dr Zwelibanzi Zondo volunteered to perform a complex scoliosis surgery pro bono, changing a young patient's life, at the Clinix Tshepo Themba Private Hospital in Meadowlands on February 19. Scoliosis is characterised by an abnormal curvature of the spine, which can significantly affect posture, breathing and overall quality of life. In severe cases, surgical correction becomes a necessity, but it is costly and highly specialised. For many without medical aid, it remains out of reach. ALSO READ: Mental health outreach brings support to youth The patient, a 28-year-old woman, had lived with scoliosis for most of her life. From a young age, she led an active lifestyle, participating in various sports. After being diagnosed, physical activities became a challenge. 'I became less active due to a constant fear of injuring myself or worsening the condition,' she explained. As a crop production student, her in-service training highlighted the toll scoliosis took on daily life. As agriculture is a physically demanding field, she often endured unbearable pain in silence. 'I had to discreetly take breaks or excuse myself because I had to live with it,' she said. Zondo stated, 'I saw not just a curved spine, but a life waiting to be restored. Pro bono work should be part of our culture in medicine, not as charity, but as responsibility.' ALSO READ: Diepkloof hosts community kidney health awareness day Since the surgery, the patient has noticed significant improvements in her posture and some relief from chronic pain. 'Recovery is still ongoing, and I do still experience pain and discomfort at times', she stated. 'Emotionally, I'm slowly rebuilding my confidence. The surgery has been life-changing. It has not only improved my physical condition but given me a renewed sense of hope.' Hospital manager Tendai Makwabarara praised the collaborative effort that made the surgery possible. 'At the Clinix Tshepo Themba, we believe in making world-class healthcare available to those who need it most', he said. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health gets R100m to fix hospital equipment, ease laundry delays 'Dr Zondo's compassion and dedication align perfectly with our mission to serve the community with dignity and care.' While scoliosis surgery is one of his specialities, Zondo also treats a range of spinal and orthopaedic conditions. His practice is not only rooted in surgical excellence but also in a steadfast commitment to equitable healthcare. To book an appointment, call 072 792 5792. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
12-07-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
New board members across Gauteng hospitals
More than 200 newly appointed hospital board members have been inducted across Gauteng to help improve healthcare governance. MEC for Health and Wellness in Gauteng Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko speaking at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. Picture: Gauteng Health In a move aimed at strengthening accountability and restoring trust in Gauteng's public healthcare system, the province's Department of Health on Friday inducted 222 new hospital board members who will serve across 34 public hospitals. The induction ceremony took place at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, where Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko officially welcomed the new members. 'Our people are ready to partner with us' The appointment follows an overwhelming public response, with more than 1 500 applications received from professionals and community leaders. Nkomo-Ralehoko said the large number of applicants was a sign of active citizenship. 'The overwhelming number of applications shows that our people are ready to partner with us to improve healthcare. It is a powerful sign of active citizenship and gives us hope for the future, especially as we march towards implementing the National Health Insurance,' said the MEC. She emphasised that the new board members are being brought on board at a crucial time, as Premier Panyaza Lesufi has identified poor service at public healthcare facilities as one of the province's 13 key challenges. 'From today, this problem becomes your problem too. You are our partners in restoring dignity, trust, and excellence in our facilities,' Nkomo-Ralehoko added. ALSO READ: Gauteng health rubbishes claims of corpses left in 'limbo' at Helen Joseph Hospital Diverse skills for better governance The new board members represent a range of backgrounds, including law, health, and community activism. Their role is voluntary and aimed at bolstering hospital governance, ensuring transparency, and improving the quality of care. Yamkela Rini, appointed to the board of Tara H. Moross Hospital, said the role comes with responsibility. 'Our role is not for financial benefit, but to ensure good governance, proper service delivery, and high standards of care. We want to help the Department of Health and hospital management address the growing number of litigations by improving quality and infrastructure,' he said. Lawyer Phillemon Lebelo, who joins the Jubilee Hospital board, highlighted the value of diversity among members. 'There is no greater honour than to serve your own community. Our collective experiences will greatly benefit the hospitals we are to serve in,' said Lebelo. ALSO READ: Water interruptions affect major Gauteng hospitals Term and vision The new boards will serve a three-year term from 1 July 2025 to March 2028. To ensure smooth transitions, the term of outgoing members was extended by three months. The department said these boards will be key in supporting hospital management and ensuring services remain patient-centred. Gauteng's new hospital boards are expected to drive the transformation of the public healthcare system and rebuild confidence among patients. NOW READ: Gauteng health MEC warns against denying foreign nationals health care access
The Citizen
02-07-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Water interruptions affect major Gauteng hospitals
Several Gauteng health facilities are impacted by Rand Water maintenance, but services continue with a backup supply The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has confirmed that several health facilities in the province are experiencing water supply interruptions following a public notice from Rand Water regarding planned infrastructure maintenance. Maintenance began on 30 June and is expected to continue until 21 July. It is said to affect the Eikenhof, Zwartkopjes and Palmiet pumping stations. Contingency plans in place In response, the department said it is working with municipalities to mitigate the impact on healthcare services. 'The department is working closely with the municipality to implement contingency measures to minimise the impact on health services,' said the GDoH in a statement. 'Most health facilities are equipped with water tanks, boreholes and reservoirs that can provide water for a duration of two to four days.' ALSO READ: Gauteng health urges parents to take children for immunisation Helen Joseph and Charlotte Maxeke hospitals affected Gauteng Health further highlighted that Helen Joseph Hospital is currently experiencing water supply interruptions, which are also affecting surrounding communities. 'Johannesburg Water tankers have been dispatched to pump water into the hospital tanks to ensure continuity of services,' the department stated. Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital is also affected by the Zwartkopjes water system outage. Pumping to the Parktown 2 Reservoir, which supplies the hospital, was halted for 50 hours from Monday morning. Despite this, the hospital continues to receive water through gravity feed from the reservoir, while tanks are being topped up as needed. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health's warning for parents Community clinics relying on Jojo tanks The Alexandra Community Health Centre and Hillbrow Community Health Centre are also experiencing supply issues and are currently dependent on Jojo tanks for their water needs. The GDoH said it remains on high alert and is monitoring the situation across all affected facilities. 'We will provide regular updates regarding any developments that may affect the provision of health services in any of our facilities,' it said. Residents are urged to conserve water where possible and remain patient as services are maintained during the ongoing maintenance period. NOW READ: 'Remedial work at Charlotte Maxeke Hospital on track,' says Gauteng Health
The Citizen
02-07-2025
- The Citizen
Gauteng HODs to be removed after SIU lifestyle audit findings
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced that three heads of department (HODs) will be removed from their positions following the outcomes of lifestyle audits conducted by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU). According to Lesufi, the officials failed to adequately respond to concerns raised in the audit reports, which form part of the Gauteng Provincial Government's efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability in the public service. Lesufi revealed that 37% of officials assessed through the lifestyle audit process were flagged as high-risk or non-compliant. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health empowers staff with training to enhance patient care The affected HODs were given an opportunity to explain the discrepancies, but their responses failed to meet the audit requirements. 'I received the final reports from the SIU, and of the four outstanding cases, three returned negative outcomes. Based on these findings, I have instructed the Director-General to initiate the process of their removal,' he said. The lifestyle audits focus on identifying discrepancies between officials' declared lifestyles and their known income, aiming to detect potential financial misconduct or undeclared interests. The audits form part of a broader effort to improve governance in the province. Lesufi added that lifestyle audits will now be prioritised for officials working in supply chain and financial management roles across all Gauteng departments and public entities. ALSO READ: Gauteng Health invests R100 million in hospital upgrades The Office of the Premier will be the starting point for this expanded review, with investigators currently processing documents and conducting third-party verifications. In addition to the lifestyle audit initiative, Lesufi said that 47 completed forensic reports have been made public. These were compiled by the SIU, the National Prosecuting Authority, and the Office of the Public Protector. They form part of a broader set of 177 reports, with the remainder to be released once finalised. The published reports detail a range of alleged irregularities, including the abuse of state resources, unauthorised expenditure, procurement violations, fraud, unfair labour practices, and personnel irregularities. Many of the reports date back several years and involve multiple departments. Lesufi clarified that these reports were previously under departmental review and were not being withheld by the Office of the Premier, as had been suggested in some quarters. To ensure accountability, a monitoring committee has been established within the Office of the Premier. ALSO READ: Gauteng MEC's food parcel cuts spark NPO protests It will track the implementation of recommendations from the reports, including efforts to recover misused public funds. Departments are required to submit quarterly updates on corrective actions taken. Lesufi also confirmed ongoing collaboration with the Asset Forfeiture Unit to support the recovery of assets linked to irregular conduct. According to the provincial government, the lifestyle audits and forensic investigations form part of a broader strategy to strengthen governance, reduce financial irregularities, and restore public trust in government operations. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
