CoE introduces new tech to assist patients
“The facility, the first and only one of its kind in Africa, has resolved the problem of patients waiting for medication by dispensing it at convenient points,” said Masina.
During 2019 the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) attempted to improve healthcare services provided to community members.
CoE achieved the first position in the Gauteng Province and the second position in the country on Ideal Clinic Realisation and Maintenance (ICRM), an initiative in preparation for the National Health Insurance (NHI).
One of the main projects, identified by executive mayor Clr Mzwandile Masina at the final sitting of City of Ekurhuleni’s council, was the implementation of the Pele Box.
The Pele Box smart lockers was formed through the city’s partnership with the Department of Health and Aurang.
“It has revolutionised the way we dispense medication and respond to the health needs of our communities,” said Masina.
Masina said the lockers are placed in council facilities and hope to change patients’ experience in accessing health care and medication.
“The facility, the first and only one of its kind in Africa, has resolved the problem of patients waiting for medication by dispensing it at convenient points,” said Masina.
Currently, there are eight operational Pele Box facilities in the city, in areas such as Winnie Mandela, Phola Park, Phillip Moyo and Dayveton Main Clinic.
By the end of January, the city hopes to have implemented another nine lockers.
Besides introducing the smart lockers, another way the city has attempted to improve access to health care is by having clinics open for 24 hours a day.
Masina said the city has eight clinics which currently operate 24 hours a day.
“Furthermore, three clinics render 12-hour services while 19 clinics provide service on Saturdays as well.”
