DEAR Editor,-
I would like to praise the staff of the Ugu Health Department for taking time out of their busy schedule to see me. They came all the way to visit me at home and patiently listened to all my problems.
I asked whether flu pills, multivitamins and vitamin C could be made available at the clinic and was told that the national government decides what medicine is available at all clinics throughout the country, and they all get the same medicine.
I requested a psychologist be resident at local clinics like other municipalities have and was told there is no budget for it. I do not believe that, considering all I’ve read in the newspapers about Ugu’s mismanagement of funds. But I did not argue because I know these particular staff members are not the decision-makers in this regard.
I complained about the psychiatrist at the Port Shepstone Regional Hospital and they said they would talk to him. They stressed that they want to hear people’s complaints and feedback, because it is a reflection of their work and shows them where they can improve.
I relayed my sincere thanks to the government for making my chronic medication available at the clinic each month as it has made a huge difference in my life and has allowed me to live a normal life.
If you would like to contact one of them, send a message to hlolisile.khumalo@kznhealth.gov.za or femi.olowookorun@kznhealth.gov.za, and for those who have mental health concerns, send a message to nonzwakazi.maphitshi@kznhealth.gov.za.
SHELLIQUE CARBY
Anerley
