Headline: The Unfortunate Event and Actions Taken
Late in November, a disheartening event occurred under the observation of the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH). Three nurses from the Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital were suspended due to allegations of subpar patient care. This incident has accentuated the importance of upholding the principles of healthcare, patient empathy, and service-oriented nursing in South Africa.
The suspension was triggered by accusations of negligence towards a young patient in the care of these suspended nurses at the hospital ward. The severity of the situation was such that it called for immediate involvement from Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, the MEC for Health and Wellness, and high-ranking managers from the GDoH. This team executed an unexpected oversight visit the night following their discovery of the regrettable incident.
The source of the complaint was the minor’s mother, who was upset about the substandard care her child was getting. Her continuous appeals to the nurses, which appeared to be neglected, compelled her to document and disseminate a video on social media platforms, showcasing her child’s disturbing condition. The video showed the minor lying on a bed covered with dirty linen.
Headline: Response to Public Outcry and Redress Meeting
In reaction to this public outrage, a remediation meeting took place between the mother and the hospital team, consisting of the treating doctor, the head of the Paediatric department, the quality manager, quality coordinator, Area manager, Nurse Service Manager, and the acting CEO. During this meeting, the patient was transferred to a different ward where he reportedly received proper care.
The GDoH, cognizant of the lapse in service, formally expressed regret to the minor’s family. They emphasized that such lapses violate the healthcare professional’s sworn duty and the Batho Pele principles, which advocate for putting ‘people first’.
Interestingly, this incident transpired during a time when the department had rolled out a provincial campaign called ‘I Serve with A Smile’. This initiative aims to enrich staff attitude, uplift the morale of healthcare workers, and ultimately enhance patient care experience. It highlights an approach to healthcare that integrates a smile, enthusiasm, empathy, and a friendly demeanor, underscoring that the essence of the health profession is patient service and care.
Headline: Aftermath of the Incident and Wake-up Call for Healthcare Industry
The punitive measures taken against the Thelle Mogoerane employees reflect the department’s determination to maintain professional ethics in public service and healthcare. It serves as a stark reminder to healthcare professionals about their obligation to patients, their families, and the larger society to provide unbiased and compassionate care.
This incident at Thelle Mogoerane hospital represents a wake-up call for the healthcare sector, emphasizing the need for regular audits and stern consequences in cases of negligence. While unfortunate, it also provides a practical lesson for other healthcare institutions to stay alert, proactive, and responsive to patient needs and complaints.
In effect, the Thelle Mogoerane incident highlights the pivotal role of healthcare providers in patient care. It stands as a grim reminder of the standards that South African healthcare providers need to maintain—those of empathy, service, and unwavering commitment towards patient welfare. It is a call for self-examination, a call for healthcare workers to truly embody the spirit of ‘I Serve with A Smile’.
For additional information regarding this incident, please get in touch with Motalatale Modiba, Head of Communication at 064 803 0808 or through email at healthmediaenquiries@gauteng.gov.za. You can also contact Tshepo Shawa, Spokesperson for the MEC for Health, at 072 222 6333 or via email at Tshepo.Shawa@gauteng.gov.za.
