Today, the MEC for Health in KwaZulu-Natal, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo surprised staff at Dundee Hospital when announced at their gates without prior arrangement. He is currently at Charles James Memorial Hospital in Nquthu where he is conducting his second unannounced visit for the day.
At Dundee Hospital, the MEC was impressed with the way the hospital is being managed and the way it successfully managed a disaster last week after a nearby mine (eMalojeni or Springlake Coal mine) burst into flames; one person died, 18 others sustained serious bodily burn injuries and many more inhaled smoke from the fire. The hospital also prides itself as a health promoting hospital as it provides a gym for both staff and patients as well as encourages the nearby communities to plant household gardens; in line with one home, one garden call by the Premier.
“I commend the staff and management at this hospital. The Health Promoting Hospitals (HPH) project was initiated in order to support hospitals towards placing greater emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention, rather than on diagnostic and curative services alone. The Health Promoting Hospitals strategy focuses on meeting the physical, mental and social needs of a growing number of chronically ill patients and the elderly; on meeting the needs of hospital staff, who are exposed to physical and psychological stress; and on meeting the needs of the public and the environment,” said the MEC during his departure for Nquthu.
He is currently at Charles James Memorial Hospital where also surprised staff and patients would be meeting him. He also intends meeting the district surgeon who was reported to have refused emergency health care to a minor who was raped.
Enquiries:
Desmond Motha
Cell: 083 295 3901
Issued by: Department of Health, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
20 October 2009
Source: Department of Health, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government (http://www.kznhealth.gov.za/)
