Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
11 June 2023 | 22:20 CAT

Image: Sky News

A shocking revelation made by Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko indicated that almost 800 babies have died at the embattled Tembisa Hospital. She made the admission in response to questions in the Gauteng provincial legislature. The babies died due to infections, immaturity hypoxia, congenital anomalies and other causes.

Nkomo-Ralehoko said 50 000 babies were delivered at Tembisa Hospital in the past three years. Of that number, 237 died in 2020/21, 271 in 2021/22 and 280 in 2022/23.

The DA’s spokesperson for Health, Jack Bloom, told Radio Islam International he had raised the question on the number of baby deaths at the Tembisa hospital after his findings at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, which has produced a similar number.

While the department states that no direct negligence has been detected, Bloom argues the upward trend is seen over the last three years, causing infant deaths due to infection and hypoxia.

Hypoxia is the absence of enough oxygen in the tissues to sustain bodily functions.

“A fair number of those hypoxia cases could have been prevented with decent resources, proper staff and equipment,” he says.

Bloom further raises concerns that poor management, theft and fraud have been contributing factors. He said the Tembisa hospital suffered one billion rand of missed payments identified by the Special Investigating Unit due to corruption and grossly overpaying for goods.

Meanwhile, the challenge to the quality of healthcare provided by state hospitals in Gauteng and the country has been ongoing.

The outgoing health ombudsman, Professor Magopa, has conducted various investigations into the Gauteng Health Department. According to Bloom m, Prof Magopa slammed the appointment process at the Rahima Moosa Hospital in his latest findings.

“Professor Magopa said there is a lack of leadership, vision and he compared the Gauteng Health Department to the Eskom levels of corruption, mismanagement and inefficiency. He pointed out that a change in political regime is needed and I think he is right,” says Bloom.

Listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.