New R52-m 24-hour state-of-the-art clinic opened in Thembisa
Community members told The Thembisan they had over the years called for the construction of a health facility
The community of Ebony Park and Kaalfontein will finally enjoy their own 24-hour health-care centre.
The state-of-the-art 24-hour clinic was officially opened by the MEC for Health, Dr Bandile Masuku, and the City of Johannesburg’s executive mayor, Clr Geoffrey Makhubo, last week Thursday.
The R52-million centre will offer primary health care, casualty, mid-wife obstetrics and emergency care services.
The clinic brings much-needed relief to the community of Greater Ivory Park, whose residents previously had to travel long distances to Thembisa Hospital and Esangweni Community Health Centre to access primary health care and other medical services.
The health centre forms part of the Government of Local Unity’s mission to place health care in the hands of residents, particularly as South Africa prepares to usher in the National Health Insurance (NHI).
Community members told The Thembisan they had over the years called for the construction of a health facility.
“Credit for today’s achievement should go to the community of Ebony Park, Kaalfontein as well as to the Gauteng provincial government, which partnered with the City of Johannesburg on this important project,” said Makhubo.
Planning of this first-of-its-kind facility began in the 2014/15 financial year.
The staff complement is in place and the Ebony Park, Kaalfontein Community Health Centre is ready to provide health care to the community.
According to the Johannesburg Development Agency (JDA), 21 SMMEs and 108 locals were involved in the project.
MEC for Health Dr Bandile Masuku said the clinic already delivered its first baby on January 30 at 7.30am and so far, it has delivered at least 55 babies from the surrounding community of Greater Ivory Park.
Laboratory services, including blood tests, will be offered and a 24-hour pharmacy is already operational.
The facility has 18 consultation rooms, midwife obstetric units (MOU) and a big casualty area.”
Ward councillor Raisibe Matsemela said the facility would help a great deal in dealing with emergencies.
“Thembisa Hospital used to accommodate people from the surrounding areas, but now we will be able to receive services similar to those of a hospital.”
Thomas Simelane, Community Health Clinic (CHC) chairperson, said the community was happy to receive the state-of-the-art health facility closer to their door steps.
