VEREENIGING – The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has confirmed the temporary closure of Rust-Ter-Vaal Clinic, which serves the communities of Roshnee, Springcol, Unitas Park, Waldrift, De Deur, Tshepong, Arcon Park, and the Ramaphosa Informal Settlement.
The clinic was initially closed by residents three weeks ago after concerns were raised about the deteriorating infrastructure, which they say posed a serious safety risk to both patients and staff.
The department has since officially shut down the facility following these community-led actions.
Community spokesperson James Kok told Ster North that residents have been appealing to the GDoH since 2015 to address the building’s worsening condition, but their concerns had gone unheeded.
“The regional manager has now officially closed the clinic, but we began turning people away weeks ago. The building has been falling apart for years, and the staff don’t have the resources they need to provide proper care,” said Kok.
“The building poses a serious hazard, and we can’t wait for someone to get injured before action is taken. We urgently call on the department to refurbish the clinic.”
GDoH spokesperson Motaletale Modiba urged patients to use the nearby public health facilities during the closure.
“Transport will be provided daily via the Gauteng Scheduled Emergency Transport (G-SET) service, transporting patients between Rust-Ter-Vaal Clinic and Market Avenue Clinic in Vereeniging, Monday to Friday from 08:00.”
Modiba noted that Rust-Ter-Vaal Clinic serves approximately 2 600 patients each month and provides essential primary healthcare services. He added that the Department of Employment and Labour has issued a prohibition notice preventing any use of the facility until major structural issues are addressed, including a collapsing ceiling, unsafe electrical wiring, and extensive dilapidation.
The GDoH has pledged to prioritise repairs at Rust-Ter-Vaal Clinic as part of its broader Infrastructure revitalisation plan, which is being implemented across all five health districts in Gauteng.
While the department has committed to refurbishing the facility, it has not provided a timeline for reopening. Officials say the duration of the closure will depend on the outcome of a comprehensive facility assessment and budget.
“The department assures the Emfuleni community that the necessary upgrades at Rust-Ter-Vaal Clinic are receiving urgent attention,” Modiba said, adding that cooperation from the public is appreciated.
