Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by David Masoeu MPL and Afrikaans soundbite by Roy Jankielsohn MPL
The Democratic Alliance is concerned about the continued failure of the ANC-led government to maintain the infrastructure of healthcare facilities, and the National District Hospital in Bloemfontein is no exception.
During a recent site visit, it was noted that the National Hospital has a series of deteriorating and non-functional structures. The buildings are not properly maintained, ceilings are collapsing, and water is leaking throughout the facility creating a hazard for patients and employees.
Moreover, the Department of Health, together with the Provincial Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, has failed to work together to remove the asbestos rubble and erect the fence, despite the issue being brought to their attention earlier this year.
The Free State Department of Health has a mandate to ensure that the infrastructure of all healthcare facilities is properly maintained and receives adequate care. Proper maintenance will save the Department money by preventing the need to rebuild poor structures or repeatedly fix broken items.
Despite maintenance being continually included in the Provincial Department’s budget, there has been no progress in improving the state of healthcare facility infrastructure. The Department’s quarterly reports clearly shows that its commitments to maintain buildings, as listed in its APP, have not been fulfilled.
The DA has submitted questions to the MEC and continue to call for action to improve the infrastructure at National Hospital, ultimately enhancing the quality of service provided to its patients.