Doctor’s headache tablets mistaken for something else

On May 19, the Addie received several complaints from residents who were examined by a doctor from Sassa.

They claim he was slurring, could hardly talk and that he was seen swallowing tablets in front of the patients, which raised their concern even more.

Sassa spokesman Boitshoko Molamu says the doctor concerned has a wealth of experience in assessing for disability, which he has been doing since 2005.

In respect of the doctor taking tablets in the presence of the client, it has been confirmed that the tablets were pain killers for a headache and, therefore, there is nothing untoward.

All assessing doctors are trained in the assessment guidelines provided by Sassa.

However, no comment was received on the cause of the doctor’s behaviour on the day.

Information

To apply for Sassa disability-related grants all applicants are required to submit evidence and history in support of their condition on the day of their appointment with a Sassa doctor.

Boitshoko says this is recorded on the referral form by the applicants’ treating source.

The applicants are also requested to bring along their medication and any other reports in support of their conditions, together with the completed referral form.

She explains that, on the day of the appointment, the assessing doctor makes a recommendation based on the evidence and history provided by the applicants.

“Not all conditions, especially chronic conditions such as hypertension, epilepsy, HIV and chronic back pain will qualify for a grant,” she says.

If applicants aren’t happy with the outcome of their assessment or application, they are welcome to complete the internal reconsideration and appeal application that are currently in place.

Bhoikotso says the staff at the Spring office is able to assist applicants with the completion of these applications.