16 August 2006
Gauteng Health MEC Brian Hlongwa opened a high-tech Breast Cancer Clinic at
Helen Joseph Hospital to improve the quality of health care available to women.
Built at a cost of R16,9 million, the state-of-the-art facility boasts the
latest technology for immediate diagnosis and improved treatment of breast
cancer by highly qualified specialists in the field.
âA first of its kind in the public sector this clinic is dedicated to the
improvement of the quality of women's health in Gauteng,â said Hlongwa. He
stated that the new clinic will reduce patientsâ waiting time tremendously
through its latest breast cancer scanning machines, and it will also be used to
train registrars in surgery, radiology and other disciplines.
The department plans to consolidate breast cancer services with the
development of a single centre of excellence that will be nationally renowned.
Hlongwa further said that the establishment of this centre of excellence was an
important milestone in the province and country at large. âWith this
initiative, we will be able to help more women suffering from breast cancer and
deliver best services ever to them in a co-coordinated and cost-effective
manner.â
Hlongwa said the event was significant because it happened in a month of
paying tribute to women who, 50 years ago, rose up to challenge the unjust
system that existed. âThis specialised breast clinic in this hospital is
therefore, a tribute and honour that the health department is paying to Helen
Joseph, a distinguished leader and campaigner for freedom and human rights,â
said Hlongwa. Staff in the newly-opened clinic pledged to undertake massive
education campaigns to encourage young and old women to go for regular breast
examinations.
The official opening was also attended by high profile guests, which
included African National Congress Deputy Secretary-General, Sankie
Mthembi-Mahanyele.
Issued by: Department of Health, Gauteng Provincial Government
16 August 2006
Source: Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.gpg.gov.za/)
