ADDRESSING ongoing challenges affecting patients at Wentworth Hospital is one of the key priorities of the hospital board. This is according to the member of the Wentworth Hospital board, Sidney Govindsamy, who is optimistic that improving service delivery at the health facility will assist alleviate concerns among the public.

Govindsamy said last year the board received numerous complaints and concerns regarding patients and service delivery.

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“Many of these matters were addressed directly, while others were escalated to the district office and to the office of the MEC for Health due to their complexity, budgetary constraints and long-term nature.

“Last week a strategic meeting was held with the acting CEO and the facilities manager to prioritise key challenges and secure commitments with clear timelines,” said Govindsamy.

He said the board has identified several interventions that are expected to result in meaningful improvements at the hospital.

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The key interventions include:

• Recruitment: Appointment of one doctor and four professional nurses; critical posts under review, including the medical manager position to be finalised by March 2026.
• Infrastructure: Lighting, security guard house, and internal road resurfacing projects to commence from mid-February 2026 through Public Works, with tenders publicly advertised.
• Medical Equipment: R500 000 allocated for procurement of priority medical equipment by mid-February 2026 – limited budget.
• Overcrowding: Engagements with neighbouring hospitals (Clairwood, King Edward and RK Khan and possibly Addington) to decongest accident and emergency division to assist and improve patient flow.
• Digital Systems: e-health and network connectivity upgrades identified as urgent priorities to prevent delays in filing and lost files.
• Security and access control: Operational plans under review to strengthen access management and safety.
• Maintenance: Ongoing daily repairs to wards, plumbing, and ablution facilities.
• Tuckshop: Current contract ends January 2026, steps underway to appoint a new service provider and improve tuckshop conditions.
• Gateway Clinic: Revamp in progress, awaiting contractor appointment.

“The board remains committed to improving standards and ensuring accountability in the best interests of patients and the community. While not all challenges can be resolved immediately, measurable progress is being made, and the board will continue to advocate for improved services and standards of care. The board’s role is limited in terms of direct execution, however it remains committed to escalating issues to the relevant authorities and continuously following up to ensure that patients receive the quality healthcare they deserve,” Govindsamy added.

The public are encouraged to lodge complaints and concerns via email to ensure proper tracking and resolution of complaints.

How to lodge a complaint?

Email concerns and complaints to the public relations officer, Phiri Thandeka, on thandeka.phiri@kznhealth.gov.za.

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