Health department denies Modimolle clinic death claims
Questions raised on social media have led to a detailed response from authorities about what happened at the clinic.
LIMPOPO – The Limpopo Department of Health has dismissed social media claims alleging that an elderly patient died while waiting for treatment at Modimolle Clinic.
According to the department, preliminary information indicates that the patient, a chronic care patient receiving routine wound dressing treatment, was attended to by clinic staff and later returned home. The department says the patient was not declared deceased at the facility at any stage.
Events leading to the incident
The department further states that the incident arose after a woman accompanying her father to the clinic became dissatisfied when asked to wait while healthcare personnel attended to an emergency case.
According to information provided by the department, the woman subsequently removed her father from the clinic and later returned. The department alleges that she attempted to record videos inside the facility without authorisation and did not comply with security procedures.
Disruption at the clinic
An altercation reportedly followed between the woman and security personnel. The department alleges that pepper spray was discharged inside the clinic during the incident, causing disruption to services and distress among patients.
Healthcare services at the facility were temporarily affected while security personnel responded to the situation. Police were called to the scene and the matter was referred to law enforcement authorities.
Patient continued receiving treatment
The department says the patient was later collected by a family member and subsequently returned to the clinic by another relative to continue receiving treatment.
Concern over misinformation
The Limpopo Department of Health has expressed concern over the circulation of unverified information on social media, saying such claims may undermine public confidence in healthcare services and negatively affect healthcare workers.
The department confirmed that a criminal case has been opened by security personnel in connection with the incident and that the matter is being investigated by the relevant authorities.
Members of the public are encouraged to verify information through official departmental communication channels before sharing it on social media platforms.
The department says it remains committed to providing healthcare services while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both patients and staff.
