Issued by: Gauteng Provincial Government
12 May 1998
The decision by the Gauteng Health Department to convert Discoverers hospital into a Community Health Centre was taken as part of a broader plan to achieve a more rational, equitable and cost efficient health service, with greater emphasis on primary health care.
Most important for the community to know is that Discoverers is not closed or not about to close. And, the change is not as dramatic as some people allege. The community can still access a wide range of health care services includi care services, a day-time casualty service, a 24-hour midwife obstetric unit, short stay beds, dental care, an X-ray unit, pharmacy and social work services.
As a whole, the conversion and reorganisation of services has been relatively smooth. The major change has been in services that require the admission of patients. These services have been transferred to surrounding hospitals. However, all outpatient services have remained in place as part of the new health care centre. Thousands of patients have been accessing outpatient services as they continue to adjust to the new system.
In March 1998, 5688 patients were treated at outpatients compared to 3924 during the same time last year. Statistics for January and February are also reflected in the table below:
Outpatient Outpatient & Casualty (head counts) (visits) MONTHS 1997 1998 1997 1998 January 4452 4668 13105 13571 February 4498 4620 9201 11500 March 3924 5688 12134 17318 TOTAL 12874 14976 34440 42389 ==================================================================
Although some staff have been lost as a result of the drawn-out process of conversion, there are plans to address the situation. For instance, the number of doctors will be increased to provide for more complex clinical services planned for the centre. This will enable us to extend casualty hours.
In the second half of this year, additional primary health care services - including family planning, a well-baby clinic, immunisation and the management of tuberculosis - will be added.
By noon today the Department had not received the memorandum on the status of the Discoverer's facility which a group of residents planned to deliver - although a member of the regional management team was at Discoverers to receive it.
Released by the Gauteng Department of Health
For more information contact: Jo-Anne Collinge 082 574 5510 (for the Department) Popo Maja 082 373 1169 (for the MEC's Office)