Newcastle Provincial Hospital to receive boost from NHI

Construction work has begun at Newcastle Provincial Hospital, after the Amajuba District was selected by the KwaZulu-Natal Health Department to pilot National Health Insurance (NHI).

“This hospital is among many healthcare facilities being upgraded to herald the arrival of National Health Insurance,” said hospital spokesperson, Sabelo Buthelezi on October 16. 

The purpose of NHI was to ensure everyone had access to efficient and quality health care services.

However, in order to be accredited to implement NHI, Mr Buthelezi explained there was a need to improve the hospital’s infrastructure, buildings and medical equipment.

Mr Buthelezi said the first phase would take eight months to complete, while the second phase would take two years. “The projects will run concurrently.”

With the construction work under way, he warned there would be times when patients would be moved from ward to ward.

“In many ways, this will cause an inconvenience to the patients and their relatives. Our staff will be working tirelessly to ensure patients are not affected in one way or another,” he assured. 

Certain corridors will be completely closed during the construction period. However, temporary signage will be placed on the walls to direct the community to various areas until renovations have been completed. 

“People can also utilise the services of the security personnel at the gate and the hospital information help desk, which is situated at the foyer, if they are in need of any hospital related information,” Mr Buthelezi continued.

With the project promising to be a time consuming endeavour, he spoke on behalf of the hospital management and askeded the community to be patient during this time.

For further information, Mr Buthelezi can be contacted on either 034 328 0086 or via email on sabelo.buthelezi2@kznhealth.gov.za.