22 January 2007
Healthcare services have been taken a step further in various parts of the
province where more than 800 matriculants were given an opportunity to do
auxiliary healthcare in hospitals and clinics throughout the province.
The initiative is part of the department's Expanded Public Works Programme
(EPWP), which aims at creating job opportunities for the youth and reduces
chronic staff shortages. Health MEC Mrs Nomsa Jajula said the department had
employed 813 matriculants to perform non-clinical duties. "This will allow
nurses to perform their clinical duties more efficiently."
Cost for the training and uniforms have been incurred by the department and
the trainees are entitled to a monthly stipend. "Their duties include weighing
of patients, helping them bath, making beds and looking out for priority
patients who should not be standing in queues," the MEC said.
She said the department has identified trainees from communities and resumed
their training this month. The department allocated R45 million for this
initiative.
Enquiries:
Sizwe Kupelo
Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 083 378 0196
Issued by: Eastern Cape Provincial Government, Department of Health
22 January 2007
Source: Eastern Cape Provincial Government (http://www.ecprov.gov.za)
