Denosa concerned by ‘worsening’ state of Tembisa Hospital
The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (Denosa) in Gauteng has raised concerns over what it says are the deteriorating conditions at Tembisa Hospital, which is operating with less than half the required staff.
According to Denosa, out of the 4,926 staff members needed, only 2,375 positions are currently filled.
“The prolonged absence of a permanent chief executive officer is now exceeding two years, along with vacant key management positions, has left healthcare workers without adequate leadership and support,” said Denosa’s Provincial chairperson, Bongani Banda.
Banda adds that the working conditions including, lack of essential resources, and weak management support have caused high resignation rates.
According to the union, 147 nurses and 43 doctors have left since the beginning of the year due to unbearable working conditions.
“This exodus of skilled professionals has further compromised patient care and increased burnout among remaining staff,” said Banda
Banda has demanded that the Department of Health prioritise immediate recruitment to fill critical vacancies in hospitals across the province.
“Denosa Gauteng therefore demands urgent action from the Gauteng Department of Health and a clear strategy for the absorption of community service nurses and doctors into permanent positions.”
“To enhance support for healthcare workers, including improved management structures and working conditions and Strengthening of the Gauteng College of Nursing to ensure the production of adequately trained nurses to meet provincial healthcare demands.”
Banda said the department’s failure to address these urgent issues will further weaken the province’s healthcare system, placing both workers and patients at severe risk.
In response, the health department says it held a series of engagements with the Denosa over concerns of staff in Tembisa Hospital.
“We have already started implementing interventions to address these issues and others have budgetary implications which need to be factored in,” said the department’s Motaletale Modiba.
He adds that the union is aware of the budget constraints, however the department has heeded Denosa’s input on how to tackle some of the challenges at the facility.
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