This is according to Jack Bloom, MPL DA Gauteng shadow Health MEC, after he recently visited the Palm Ridge Fire Station.
“There is a shortage of bandages, oxygen masks, gauze, linen savers, syringes, intravenous needles, space blankets, alcohol swabs and nebulisers,” Bloom said.
“The storeroom is short of other items as well, with lots of empty shelves.”
Bloom added that medical consumables are ordered from the Gauteng Health Department, but supplies have been erratic and grossly inadequate for about a year.
“It appears that the problem is due to the non-payment of suppliers,” he said.
“These shortages affect ambulances all over Ekurhuleni and in other parts of Gauteng, as well.
“I have alerted Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu about this unacceptable situation, which endangers the lives of patients.
“I hope she takes quick action to ensure adequate supplies for all emergency ambulances in Gauteng.”
The metro was approached for comment on the matter.
Themba Gadebe, the spokesman for the metro, said: “In the midst of the low levels of basic medical supplies, we are pleased that service delivery has not been compromised.
“More importantly, lifesaving equipment is still sufficient in the region.
“It is not true that our emergency personnel buy any medical consumables from their own pockets.
“In fact, we have been receiving some basic medical supplies from other districts that have a surplus, in order to continue to provide emergency services.
“We are aware that the Gauteng EMS is at an advanced stage in terms of procurement to restore the situation to normal.”
