VEREENIGING – In a move geared towards better health services for the Sedibeng District community, Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Faith Mazibuko, supported by stakeholders and management, launched three wards at Kopanong Hospital on June 1.

The launch was marked by singing and celebration, as extensive upgrades and infrastructure improvements by the department finally came to fruition. The upgrades include a paediatric ward with 30 beds, an admission ward with 24 beds, and a female psychiatric ward boasting 30 beds.

The paediatric ward offers a safer and child-friendly environment that supports healing and recovery. The department says the improved facilities will empower nurses and healthcare workers to provide quality care more efficiently, enhancing patient monitoring and overall service delivery.

The female psychiatric ward will improve patient safety, dignity, and therapeutic care. Furthermore, the ward will offer an enhanced environment for rehabilitation and recovery, support multidisciplinary treatment, and strengthen access to quality specialised mental healthcare services in the district.

The admission ward has been upgraded to provide a safer and more welcoming environment for patients entering care, improving the patient experience from admission through to treatment and recovery.
Speaking at the event, Mazibuko said she was excited about opening the facilities.

The projects demonstrate the government’s commitment to ensuring that public healthcare facilities are equipped to meet the needs of growing communities.

She emphasised the importance of providing a comprehensive range of specialised healthcare services, including mental healthcare and support services for victims of abuse, to ensure residents have access to integrated and patient-centred care.

The chairperson of the board at Kopanong Hospital, Richard Nqhatseng, said:
“We have seen significant improvement since the appointment of the new MEC. As the board, we confirm that we will do our best to ensure this hospital becomes a hospital of choice for people without medical aid.

“Our job is to take into cognisance what the community’s needs are. We are proud to have a person of the MEC’s calibre. The work she has achieved in the short period that she has been in office is amazing.”
Ward councillor Elize Aucamp shared the same sentiments as Nqhatseng, citing that she is excited to see improvements geared towards a better patient experience at the hospital.

“I am excited about today’s launch. The MEC’s investment in Kopanong brings hope to our people. This means that patients will no longer spend a long time in the casualty without any assistance. Since the MEC has been in office, communication has improved, and we are seeing a big difference.” At Sebokeng Hospital, Mazibuko officially unveiled a newly built Accident and Emergency Unit and a refurbished Male Mental Health Unit.