Staff members asked to carry water buckets at Mmametlhake Hospital

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While the Department of Health is still working on ensuring the success of NHI implementation, public health still finds itself in media for all the wrong reason more than the good.

This is as Public Servants Association of South Africa (PSA) lashes out at the Department of Health in Mpumalanga following water shortage complaints at Mmametlhake Hospital in the outskirts of Mpumalanga.

A matter which the association says have allegedly been going on for a while.

“The Public Servants Association of South Africa (PSA) is deeply concerned about the ongoing water shortage at Mmametlhake Hospital in Mpumalanga. This shortage has severely impacted the delivery of Health services and represents a significant violation of human rights.”

“A consistent water supply is essential for infection control and proper implementation of acceptable health practices. The lack of water in this facility poses a serious risk to the health and safety of both patients and staff.”

PSA added that they have several discussions with both the Acting district manager and acting CEO about the possible solution, but unfortunately the solution they came up with would not be of great help for everyone.

The hospital also said that the water supply to the facility is way out of the jurisdiction, as it is the responsibility of the municipality. One of the suggestions by the hospital was for the staff members to carry water with buckets from the Jojo tanks into their offices, the association rejected it.

“The Mpumalanga Department of Health continues to jeopardize the health and safety of employers by expecting them to work in unsafe conditions, and the PSA cannot accept the situation as this poses a significant risk not only to PSA members and staff but to patients and the wider community due to associated health risks.”

PSA also added that while they continue to engage with the province for a solution, the hospital also said they will do their best to resolve the matter.