The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has noted with serious concern complaints from members of the public alleging that some patients may be paying officials to bypass queues when scheduling appointments, accessing patient files and collecting medication from pharmacies at public health facilities.

The department has strongly condemned any form of bribery, corruption or preferential treatment within the public healthcare system.

According to the department, patients must access services through established processes, and no person should be allowed to use money to gain an advantage in accessing services.

The department stated that the allegations are serious and that it will investigate credible complaints involving officials who are alleged to have solicited or accepted bribes from patients.

The department has reminded officials that accepting money or any other benefit in exchange for performing, expediting or giving preferential treatment in the execution of their duties is a serious offence.

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Such conduct may constitute corruption under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act, 2004 (Act 12 of 2004).

The department said that members of the public who are asked for a bribe, or who have information about officials allegedly involved in such activities, are urged to report these incidents immediately.

“Patients are encouraged to report such incidents while they are still at the health facility by approaching the Office of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or the Quality Assurance Office.

“This will enable the facility management to record the complaint and, where possible, initiate an immediate investigation,” said the health department.

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The department has encouraged members of the public not to remain silent when confronted with corruption.

The department noted that reporting these incidents will assist them in protecting patients, strengthening accountability and ensuring that public healthcare services are provided fairly and without discrimination.

“The GDoH reiterates that public healthcare services are not for sale. No patient should have to pay an official to receive a service to which they are entitled, and no official has the right to demand payment for performing their duties,” shared the department.

Members of the public can also report complaints and suspected corrupt activities through the Department’s established reporting channels as follows: Email: [email protected], SMS your complaint to 35023 or contact the 24-hour customer line on 0800 203 886.

The department calls on all officials to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism and warns that corruption will not be tolerated within Gauteng’s public healthcare system.