Health department says EFF proposal for 24/7 clinics is unaffordable
The department says it would be desirable to have round the clock care at clinics, but the bill has ‘massive financial implications’
21 October 2020 - 14:40
Providing round the clock services at all government clinics is desirable but completely unaffordable in the current economic climate, the health department told parliament on Wednesday.
EFF MP Suzan Thembekwayo has submitted a private member’s bill to parliament, seeking amendments to the National Health Act that would compel clinics and community health centres to remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Most public sector clinics offer services only on weekdays between 7am and 4pm, compelling patients to seek primary health care services at hospitals outside these hours...
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