Tshwane clinics affected by Rand Water supply challenges
Arrangements are currently being made to fill the backup water tank at the Lotus Gardens facility, and the clinic is temporarily open for operations.
The provision of water to clinics in Tshwane has been impacted by Rand Water supply challenges.
MMC for health, Rina Marx said on Wednesday that her department has noted with concern the recent Rand Water supply challenges in Tshwane
“If the shortages are prolonged, the impact on primary healthcare services would be dire,” she said.
Marx said on Monday the department had to close Olievenhoutbosch clinic due to water shortages. The clinic was re-opened on Tuesday, but Lotus Gardens clinic has also been experiencing a water shortage.
She added that arrangements are currently being made to fill the backup water tank at the facility, and the clinic is temporarily open for operations.
“As the MMC responsible for health, I cannot stress more that water shortages have a significant impact on hygiene practices.
“Hand-washing is not possible after performing clinical procedures as per the infection and control policy, ablution facilities cannot be flushed and the administration of single-dose medication is not possible as patients cannot be offered water to ingest the prescribed treatment,” she said.
However, the city said it has entered into technical engagement with Rand Water to ensure that water supply is restored to affected areas.
Marx said she welcomes the metro’s intervention for water to be restored to all affected areas, adding that her department will keep communities informed should the situation worsen and force the closure of any facility.
“It is therefore imperative that the water supply be restored to mitigate the possible closure of clinics and to ensure business continuity.
“Furthermore, cleanliness at our 24 primary healthcare facilities cannot be compromised,” Marx concluded.
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