MEC Mekgwe updates community leaders on progress of hospitals under construction

Gauteng Health and Social Development MEC, Ntombi Mekgwe met community leaders from Katlehong, Thokoza and Vosloorus at the weekend.

The purpose of the meeting was to update them on the progress of the new Natalspruit hospital. The MEC also gave details to the leaders on how the hospital will function.

She emphasised that it is still important for members of the community to visit local clinics and be referred to hospitals when necessary, to avoid overcrowding. The system of referral will allow the hospital to function better.

The new 771 bed hospital which will replace the existing Natalspruit hospital will also have a gateway clinic and a crèche.

The hospital, which has a contract value of R1.4 billion and is under construction in Vosloorus, is expected to be completed in October 2012. Due to the dolomitic conditions in Katlehong, a safer site was identified in Vosloorus. The estimated cost for equipment is R155 million.

The services to be offered at the new hospital include: Accident, Emergency and Trauma unit; Adult ICU and High Care; Paediatric ICU and High Care; Psychiatric ward, TB ward; Gynae and maternity services as well as a Burns unit.

By the middle of this week, security personnel will be deployed to the new hospital. The administration staff will be moved from the beginning of next month in phases and they will be working in both hospitals until final relocation.

The handover of different blocks is expected to commence from the end of April right through to the end of August.

This afternoon, the MEC will meet with community leaders in Soweto to share progress with the Zola/Jabulani hospital.

Enquiries:
Simon Zwane on
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