By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
The Nursing staff and patients at M’Africa clinic in Barberton and Barberton hospital were pleasantly surprised when they saw Mpumalanga Health MEC, Sasekani Manzini, walking through the corridors of the two health facilities on Thursday 26 September, during an announced visit, which was reportedly part of monitoring the provision of healthcare services.
According to a statement by the Department, the MEC was highly impressed by the sight of almost empty chairs and a few patients at the two facilities, which signalled that patients received the required attention from the staff members.
In her response, Manzini thanked the staff at the clinic for their commitment towards patients.
“ I observe that the patients we find here are happy with the services provided, and it’s always encouraging to see almost empty chairs, because that’s an indication that patients get serviced in time,” said Manzini.
Her next stop was Barberton hospital where she was equally impressed by the service provided and the same sight of chairs that were alkaloses empty.
“ People are receiving healthcare services on time from Out Patient Department(OPD) to Pharmacy, and it shows that most of our facilities are in the right track for the National Health Insurance(NHI),” said Manzini.
She said that both facilities are at an impressive 89,8% and 90% availability of medicine, respectively.
One of the residents, Zodwa Maphanga, sang praises to the staff for providing efficient service to the public.
“ The service of this clinic is top class. I brought my child for consultation and in less than 30 minutes we were done,” said Maphanga.
The Medical Manager at Barberton Hosptial, Dr Nyukusa, thanked the MEC for the visit. Dr Nyukusa said the hospital supports nine clinics, four prisons and the mines surrounding Umjindi.
“ We were not aware that you(MEC) are coming, and we feel honoured by your presence. We can indicate that this hospital is doing well,” said Dr Nyukusa.
