The Health Ombud has called for urgent infrastructure upgrades at Helen Joseph Hospital in Johannesburg following an investigation into allegations of poor patient treatment and substandard conditions.
The Office of Health Standards Compliance and the Health Ombud released their findings after broadcaster Thomas Holmes, also known as Tom London, posted videos highlighting issues such as inadequate healthcare services and deteriorating hospital facilities.
Health Ombud Professor Taole Mokoena emphasized the need to prioritize essential refurbishments, particularly the sewage system and water supply.
“They must prioritize refurbishment. For example, the sewage system and the water supply. Resident artisans should be appointed at the hospital to handle ongoing maintenance. Currently, there are no artisans on site, and maintenance staff are seconded on a temporary basis,” Mokoena stated.
The Gauteng Health Department acknowledged the recommendations and confirmed that steps are being taken to address the highlighted concerns.
The report also identified issues such as shortages of linen and essential supplies, inadequate governance, staff shortages, and cleanliness challenges.
Gauteng Health Department spokesperson, Motalatale Modiba, assured that interventions are already in progress.
“The department has initiated province-wide measures to address these issues. This includes reviewing the organisational structure, awaiting approval processes, and strengthening the infrastructure function with the appointment of a Deputy Director General. A comprehensive maintenance and upgrade programme, including the procurement of health technology and the process of filling the CEO position, has also been developed.”
Call for an Efficient Healthcare System
Health activist Dr. Kgosi Letlape stressed the importance of a well-functioning public healthcare system before implementing the National Health Insurance (NHI).
“You can’t have actors all over the place. There must be structured budgeting where hospitals allocate funds clearly for security, maintenance, human resources, equipment, and medication. If this isn't done, the problems will only worsen,” Letlape said.
He highlighted that the public healthcare system was once superior to the private sector due to well-established processes. “The right systems were in place, and people on site implemented them effectively. Performance was judged based on standardized templates, ensuring accountability,” he added.
The Health Ombud’s recommendations signal an urgent need for systematic improvements at Helen Joseph Hospital, with authorities pledging to act on the report’s findings.