LIMPOPO – The Limpopo Department of Health has launched an internal investigation following allegations that patients were instructed to clean at a clinic in Burgersfort before receiving medical treatment.

Department spokesperson Neil Shikwambana said the department noted with concern a viral social media video claiming that nurses at Burgersfort Clinic forced patients to clean the facility prior to being assisted.

“The department takes these allegations seriously and has instituted an internal investigation to establish the full facts surrounding the incident,” Shikwambana said.

Preliminary reports indicate that one of the consulting rooms had been flooded. At the time, neither of the two cleaners assigned to the facility had reported for duty. Nursing staff reportedly began cleaning in an effort to resume services without delay.

During this process, it is said that some patients who had arrived to collect chronic medication voluntarily offered to assist so that services could continue. A video was recorded during the incident and later circulated on social media.

Shikwambana emphasised that departmental policies do not permit voluntary work within healthcare facilities by members of the public or patients. He added that patient dignity, safety and infection prevention standards are non-negotiable.

The department has called on any patients who were present at the facility during the incident to come forward to assist with the investigation.

“The Limpopo Department of Health remains committed to upholding professional standards and ensuring that all healthcare users are treated with dignity and respect,” he said.