By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has launched an investigation into allegations made by a patient and broadcaster Tom London, who was admitted at the Helen Joseph hospital.
London recorded a video which circulated on social media complaining about the treatment he received at the hospital.
In the six-minute-long video, London complains about the treatment they get from the health practitioners, shows non-functioning equipment and poor infrastructure, and alleges a patient died without being attended to.
Using his phone, London took a tour of the facility, exposing malfunctioning taps, peeling ceiling boards and broken plug points, among other infrastructure challenges.
Gauteng Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba says the matter is being investigated to address the concerns raised by the patient.
“We do have some interventions that are currently unfolding in relation to this particular facility and other facilities. The issues around staff attitude that are being raised. We have launched a provincial campaign called “I Serve With A Smile”, which is aimed at improving staff attitude and patient experience of care. This programme is currently being rolled out at all healthcare facilities.
“Furthermore, the GDoH has established an internal Infrastructure Unit which has now developed a maintenance and refurbishment programme,” He said.
The department has also revealed that after completing ICU wards at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, and Jubilee District Hospital as well as refurbishments at Kopanong Hospital, Helen Joseph and other facilities will also be receiving attention, added Modiba.