Hospital responds to complaint about equipment

Tambo Memorial Hospital (TMH) has addressed concerns following reports that a patient with a serious digestive condition was unable to receive a diagnosis in December due to technical failures in critical medical equipment.

According to African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) councillor Palesa Yates, the patient was informed that gastroscopies and colonoscopies could not be performed until February when the necessary machines are expected to be operational again.

“The patient, who wants to remain anonymous, is suffering daily and may face permanent physical consequences.

Gauteng Health needs to manage maintenance better to prevent such delays in basic and common procedures,” said Yates.

The hospital, which serves a catchment population of approximately 660 000 people, explained the challenges contributing to the delay.

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TMH spokesperson Zoliswa Nzeku noted that patient numbers are increasing annually, leading to greater strain on equipment.

“In 2023/24, the hospital’s headcount was 219 273, and by the ninth month of 2024/25, the figure had already reached 180 595, a notable rise from 164 456 during the same period last year.

“High patient volumes increase the risk of equipment breakdown due to overuse. Although the hospital has two gastroscopy machines to mitigate such risks, both machines failed towards the end of 2024.

“Repairs could not be completed locally, as the equipment had to be shipped to Germany. We have requested a loan machine to resume services and are awaiting feedback,” said Nzeku.

Nzeku said in addition to the gastroscopy machines, the hospital’s colonoscopy machine also broke down at the start of the festive season.

“Repair companies had already closed for the holidays. We are still awaiting quotations for repairs.

“Budgetary constraints have further complicated the situation. While we would prefer to have two colonoscopy machines, limited resources have required prioritising other critical equipment.

She added that as a contigency plan, their urgent cases are being referred to other hospitals, whilst they make frequent follow with regards to repairs of their machies

Yates emphasised the need for proactive maintenance strategies and emergency provisions to ensure patients are not subjected to undue suffering.

Meanwhile, TMH assures the public that efforts are being made to address the situation promptly and minimise disruptions to patient care.

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