Yusuf Dadoo Hospital’s hidden gem
The Tshepong Medico Legal Clinic at Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital invites victims of abuse to make use of their services.
The Tshepong Medico Legal Clinic at Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital, previously known as the Crisis Centre, is somewhat of a hidden gem in Krugersdorp. Although they provide a highly valuable service, far too few people know about it.
The cases that they deal with, unfortunately, are extremely serious because they’re the ones who many broken people in the community turn to as their last hope.
Wendy Mehlomakuly-Edigheji, centre Area Manager explained what they do.
“We deal with social offence and domestic violence cases, child abuse, abuse of the elderly and more. With social offence cases we collect the forensic evidence, which we can do up to five days after the incident. We provide PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) treatments to help prevent HIV; contraceptives; treatment for hepatitis or to prevent sexually transmitted diseases. Victims don’t have to go to the police, they can come straight to us.
After we’ve done all of the examinations, we call the police to come and take the statement. If they go to the police first, they will bring them here. We also fill out the J88 form and testify in court.”
Jacobeth Moilwa, the centre’s professional nurse and Forensic Trauma Clinician said, “It depends on how they are when they arrive. Sometimes they don’t want to talk to the social worker immediately, but they can make an appointment.” The social worker can then help the victims deal with their emotions and the psychological toll their situation has taken, and even work with the family if necessary.
The services provided at the centre, including medical treatment, psycho-therapy and legal aid are free to the public.
At this stage, especially during Covid-19, the centre has seen a decline in patients.
With Covid-19, loss of income and isolation we believe that domestic violence has increased. Most people don’t know much about our services. We would like to encourage them to report their case and to come to get the help they deserve. If they don’t get that help in time, the psychological, mental and health impact could be significant,” noted Wendy.
The centre operates from 07:00 to 18:00, but the cut-off time for allowing people in is 15:00 as sexual assault cases can take up to three hours to process. The centre is located at the rear of the Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital, at the furthest gate.
