Netcare said their facilities in Gauteng were under pressure, while facilities in other provinces remained on high alert and have not yet seen a surge in Covid-19 admissions.
Netcare urged the public to adhere to Covid-19 prevention measures and seek help early as Covid-19 cases continued to surge in the country.
Managing director of Netcare’s hospital division, Jacques du Plessis said Netcare continued to monitor the situation closely and adjust its strategy while maintaining an abundance of caution.
“With our experience in first and second waves, Netcare hospitals are well equipped and can quickly maximise capacity with a strong emphasis on safety, to keep healthcare services operating as efficiently and effectively as possible for all our patients,” said Du Plessis.
He added that Netcare had suspended visiting hours, other than in exceptional circumstances and end-of-life situations, and then only with the expressed permission of hospital management on a case-by-case basis.
To keep informed on the progress of a loved one at a Netcare facility, next-of-kin nominated by the patient admitted to hospital were encouraged to contact the Netcare Family Connect Line on 080 011 1266.
Du Plessis said Netcare echoed the President’s call for every person to play their part in flattening the curve of the third wave by maintaining social distancing, wearing masks appropriately, avoiding crowded and poorly ventilated spaces, washing hands regularly and thoroughly, and self-isolating if they may have been exposed to the virus.
“Flattening the curve of the third wave and seeking healthcare from a general practitioner early if you or a loved one starts to feel unwell will go a long way towards improving individual health outcomes in many cases, and preventing bottlenecks in accessing emergency care at this critical time.”
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