Editor – If ever a circus requires clowns, kindly contact the out-patient department (OPD) of the Ladysmith Provincial Hospital.
I am a 62-year-old pensioner who went to the OPD for my checkup. I was allocated No. 80. While waiting in the queue, I was asked by a sister to go to the back seat, which I did. I then noticed that people with higher waiting numbers were given first preference.
Upon enquiry, the sister in charge arrogantly asked me to follow her. She took me to the unit leader in the stretcher room and had a private conversation with her. The unit leader, without asking me any questions, came out screaming at me, saying that I was not privileged. Yes, I am not! I followed correct procedures and was pushed from end to end.
I had been there since 7am and only left at 3pm, without being attended to.
The sister also mentioned that she would ensure that I be attended to last.
I have their details with me and without any threat, I am liaising with the medical board.
It was disgusting to be an Indian being oppressed in the apartheid era and now we see the very same thing (in fact worse) in this “new South Africa”.
To the superintendent, sir, I am not sure if you are aware of what goes on in this hospital of “yours”. If not, look deeper. It all begins with you. If you are not capable of disciplining your staff, then I suggest you give your position to someone who can. I am a pensioner and have since bought my own chronic medicines with the help of my children.
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