FOLLOWING the widespread outcry over a critical shortage of ambulance services in Wentworth and surrounding areas, the KZN Department of Health handed over a fleet of 44 new emergency vehicles on December 24.

The hand over comes at the time when Wentworth residents have been grappling with severe shortage of emergency vehicles, with some ambulances out of service and waiting repairs for several months.

Some of the emergency vehicles are currently stationed at a depo at Wentworth Hospital.

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The recent handover is envisaged to alleviate the strain on residents who have faced ongoing challenges in accessing healthcare services.

The aim of the handover is to booste emergency medical services across the province.

The event highlighted the critical role of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel, who are often the first point of contact in medical emergencies.

MEC for KZN Department of Health, Nomagugu Simelane said, “An ambulance is hope on four wheels.”

She emphasised that lifesaving care begins at the scene, not at the hospital.

Simelane engaged directly with EMS employees, thanking them for their dedication and the essential work they perform for communities, especially during the demanding festive season when many are on duty while others celebrate.

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During the engagement, she addressed and dispelled concerns regarding the privatisation of EMS.

“Let me be unequivocal, the department has no plans to privatise our Emergency Medical Services,” she said.

She also clarified that a temporary measure is being implemented to manage current pressures, specifically for interfacility patient transfers.

“This involves a short-term collaboration with the private sector to bridge a temporary gap while we finalise the strengthening of our own resources.

“This is a transitional arrangement for a very specific service. Once our operational capacity is restored to a reasonable and sustainable level, we will resume full in-house management of all transfers. Our system remains a public service,” said Simelane.

The newly procured fleet, valued at R86 million comprises:

• 30 normal ambulances,
• Eight dual-stretcher vehicles
• Six 35-seater Planned Patient Transport vehicles.

This procurement is a targeted intervention to address challenges such as:

• An ageing fleet
• Vehicle downtime.

Increased call volumes, which have previously impacted response times.

“While some vehicles are pending due to technical and logistical reasons, they are expected to join the operational fleet within weeks,” Simelane said.

In outlining the state of readiness for the festive season, Simelane confirmed that EMS deployment plans have been strengthened, coordination with law enforcement and emergency partners has been improved, and resources have been strategically positioned in high-risk areas.

This coordinated effort, involving stakeholders like SANRAL, police, and metro police, aims to reduce response times and manage the anticipated increase in trauma and emergencies.

She issued a stern condemnation of attacks, assaults, or intimidation against EMS personnel, labelling such acts as criminal offences and a direct threat to public safety.

Communities were urged to protect EMS workers and report perpetrators.

While addressing issues of conduct, the MEC clarified that transgressions are committed by a “few rotten apples” and should not reflect on the entire dedicated team.

The department reiterated its commitment to staff well-being, encouraging healthcare workers to utilise rest periods, annual leave, and support programmes to ensure their physical and mental health, a foundation for a sustainable and effective health system.

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