Free State Trauma Centres not ready for the festive season

The current state of readiness of the Pelonomi Trauma Centre, as we approach the festive season, is cause for grave concern, the DA said in a statement today, Monday 11 December, noting that this critical period is marked by, an increase in road accidents and other emergencies.

“While we acknowledge the tireless efforts of our healthcare professionals, it has come to our attention that the only trauma centre in the Free State, Pelonomi Hospital, is not adequately prepared to handle the anticipated surge during this festive season.

Replies received on questions submitted to the MEC of Health, Mathabo Leeto, revealed a severe staff shortage in this unit, making only six ICU beds available at some stages. We were informed that there is sometimes not even a clerk on duty to book patients, which impacts emergency medical responses, ordering blood or X-rays and other services.

Similarly, at the Universitas Tertiary Hospital, the situation has deteriorated, putting the lives of patients at risk. Four critical Cath Labs, where tests and procedures including ablation, angiogram, angioplasty and implantation of pacemakers are carried out are non-functional. In reply to questions submitted to the MEC on 7 November 2023, and received on 22 November 2023 the MEC confirmed that 31 patients are affected daily and according to the MEC, the procurement processes of new systems have started and are in progress.

“These problems at our hospitals have severe consequences and continue to compromise the well-being of our people.”

The MEC needs to step in urgently to ensure the improvement of the public health institutions in the Free State, the DA concluded.