Doctors in North West plead for urgent help as strikes cripple healthcare
The doctors say striking workers have shut the main medical depot‚ leading to a shortage of medication, and some hospitals and clinics have been closed
The health crisis in the North West could end up being worse than the Life Esidimeni tragedy‚ according to a group of doctors.The 73 doctors have penned an emotional plea for urgent action in the province‚ which has been crippled by protests and a nurses’ strike."We have taken an oath to ‘do no harm’ and in our silence‚ we have contributed to harm. This cannot go on as we are concerned about methods used which include closure of healthcare facilities that affect the health of our society‚" the letter reads."Of note, provision of healthcare is an entrenched Constitutional right in SA. The grievances of the striking employees are valid and supported; however, the modus operandi is condemned‚ particularly the shutting down of health service provision."The doctors said the crisis had been fuelled by a number of factors‚ including corruption‚ job freezes‚ skills shortages and outsourcing. They said striking workers had shut the main medical depot‚ leading to a shortage of medication and ...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.