By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Netcare group has refuted claims that its Milpark Hospital turned away a Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) officer who was shot while on duty.
The group confirmed that on the evening of April 30, a JMPD officer received immediate, lifesaving treatment at Netcare Milpark Hospital.
“A JMPD officer received immediate, lifesaving treatment at Netcare Milpark Hospital. Following established global trauma protocols for priority one patients – those with the most time-sensitive, potentially life-threatening injuries – the officer underwent comprehensive screening and was stabilised before being transferred to another appropriate facility under the guidance of a leading trauma surgeon,” it said.
Dr Erich Bock, managing director of Netcare’s Hospital Division, as always, our priority as healthcare professionals is the wellbeing of our patients, and we remain fully committed to providing only the highest level of emergency care to every individual who comes through our doors. That wholehearted dedication extends to JMPD officers and others who risk their lives to protect our communities.”
Bock added that the officer later underwent a procedure at another Netcare facility, where he continues to receive medical attention.
“We are doing everything in our power to support our patient and will continue to closely monitor his progress while providing full support to him, his family, and his colleagues during this challenging time,” he said.
While Netcare acknowledged that payments are outstanding, including fees owed to independent private practitioners working at Milpark and other facilities, the hospital emphasised that emergency services are provided in good faith, and patient care always comes first.
“In many emergency situations, patients are transferred between public and private facilities only after they have been stabilised,” Bock said.
“We rely on fair and timely compensation to ensure the sustainability of our operations and the continued availability of expert medical professionals.”
He added that discussions with the City are ongoing and expressed hope for a swift resolution.
Fullview understands the city has an arrangement with Netcare Milpark Hospital to provide emergency treatment for officers injured while on duty.
The City of Johannesburg also issued a statement expressing sadness over the incident, which occurred Wednesday during a police pursuit.
During the chase, a suspect opened fire, striking the officer twice in the upper body.
The officer was airlifted to Milpark Hospital for emergency care.
However, the City said it was dismayed by the hospital’s refusal to treat him, allegedly due to an outstanding R35 million debt.
“The city wishes to clarify and refute these claims, stating that the current outstanding bill for Milpark Hospital stands at R3.9 million, with payments being processed and paid weekly,” the city said in a statement.
Political parties in the City of Johannesburg have expressed anger at the city’s inability to pay its debts.