Replies to DA questions regarding purchasing and maintenance of the metro’s ambulance fleet have reportedly revealed that the provincial department contributes financially only to staff costs.
The DA claims that while the province is apparently undergoing a post filling process for critical posts, along with ambulance procurement (10 obstetric and three ICU ambulances) to improve efficiencies, clinics in the metro continue to suffer from severe ambulance shortages and poor service.
“Clinics have advised me during oversight visits that they often cannot get through to the provincial ambulance service call centre and ambulances either arrive late or do not arrive at all,” said Michele Clarke MPL.
“Last year the metro purchased 50 new ambulances out of their own budget, as the provincial department was not able to provide the services.
“In reality, the metro should simply be an agent for the province; supplied with vehicles and resources through an annual grant.
“However, the annual grant is never enough to cover the service and operate to the current norms and standards.”
It has been claimed that the Gauteng Department of Health was unable to confirm whether additional funds will be allocated for the purchase of more ambulances.
“I will be following up with the department to ensure that this shortage is addressed and that the people of the metro get the service that they deserve,” concluded Clarke.
