Ward councillor Joyce Ntombela, a representative from the Gauteng Legislature under the health department, Emma More and community members from Pimville took a stand for their right to healthcare services when they visited the Michael Maponya Clinic in Pimville on May 11.

The visit aimed to highlight the poor condition of the clinic, as well as issues relating to overcrowding and staff shortages. Community members said the situation has persisted for years and that many residents no longer see the benefit of using the facility.

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“For a number of years, we have been complaining about the state of the clinic to the councillor, and we decided to take matters into our own hands. Fortunately, we reached out to the correct people who heeded our call for this oversight visit.

“We want them to see for themselves the state of this clinic so that they can take the matter to the relevant people who can do something about the situation,” said community member Nomvuyo Williams.

Once regarded as one of the best healthcare facilities in Soweto, the clinic is now facing a shortage of nurses.

According to reports, only four nurses are available to attend to large numbers of patients.

Health and sanitation have also become concerns, with toilets reportedly emitting foul smells throughout the facility and a shortage of medication affecting patients in need of treatment.

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Upon arrival, the group met with Matron Maseko, who acknowledged the challenges facing the clinic and said some issues, including the toilets, are being addressed.

She also stated that, following discussions with the department, posts have been advertised to appoint additional staff to various healthcare facilities.

A community member, who requested anonymity, told Urban News that her mother, who suffers from chronic illnesses, has not received medication for three months.

She questioned how a public healthcare facility could go without chronic medication for such an extended period.

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More said that although much work still needs to be done, she remains hopeful that improvements will be made.

“The matron had a positive attitude and did not hide any of the challenges within the clinic. Our department also needs to lend a hand, especially regarding the staff shortage. We believe there will be improvement during our next visit,” she said.

Community members said they are somewhat pleased with the visit’s outcome, but will only be fully satisfied once the issues raised have been addressed and corrected.