Severe shortages in orthopaedic services have resulted in a growing list of patients needing surgeries.
To address these shortages, the Free State Department of Health will see to it that new anaesthetists and orthopaedic specialists are appointed to bolster capacity.
This concerted effort comes in the wake of numerous complaints regarding patients’ long waiting periods to undergo surgery.
According to Mondli Mvambi, spokesperson for the department, the first interviews with anaesthetists and orthopaedic specialists were conducted on Thursday (24/02).
“Due to high volumes of trauma, violence and injuries, orthopaedic services are in great demand,” said Mvambi.
“As a results, more theatre space, time and resources are needed.”
Complaints raised by patients are being assessed.
“The department can confirm that some have indeed been waiting for a long time. The waiting period is due to various reasons, as each injury is treated on its own individual merit and healthcare service provision is tailored to each patient,” said Mvambi.
Rife violence in communities is blamed for contributing to the surgical backlog.
“Cases of emergency related to trauma, injury and violence supersede scheduled surgeries. Such cancellations frustrate patients who are awaiting surgeries.”
According to Mvambi, some patients end up skipping meals for days on end to be ready for surgery in the event that theatre space opens up.
“The high demand for our services is due to factors beyond our control. Violence, motor vehicle accidents, gunshot wounds and stab injuries have compelled the department to expand its services and staffing levels.”
The Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital in Bloemfontein, specifically, has a massive surgical backlog.
According to Mvambi, 66 patients on the hospital waiting list are due to undergo surgeries, while others will be referred to the Albert Nzula District Hospital in Trompsburg.
Pelonomi has, however, made significant strides to eliminate the backlog by performing 251 surgeries in November and 250 in December last year. The team also performed 253 surgeries in January and 134 in February.
In an effort to eliminate the backlog, the department has made more theatre space available at other hospitals, namely the Bongani Hospital in Welkom, Manapo Hospital in Qwaqwa, Fezi Ngubentombi Hospital in Sasolburg, Dihlabeng Regional Hospital in Bethlehem and the Boitumelo Hospital in Kroonstad.
“The department will continue its relentless efforts to strengthen healthcare services in the province and reduce the high volumes of referrals to Pelonomi.”
Cases of emergency related to trauma, injury and violence supersede scheduled surgeries– Mondli Mvambi
