Festive season | Gauteng health dept gives update on readiness

JOHANNESBURG - It's the festive season and while it's a time to relax, sadly the number of injuries also increase.

The Gauteng Health MEC will give an update on the readiness of the healthcare system.

But there are concerns over water and power supply.

READ: Festive season watered down for Joburg residents

In November, MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko revealed that 16 public hospitals had experienced water cuts.

This led to the cancellation of 392 operations.

Helen Joseph Hospital had seven interruptions, while Pholosong Hospital suffered six water failures.

READ: SA’s water crisis | Gauteng loses 35% of water to leakages

This is despite government saying hospitals should have a minimum of 48 hours water storage.

The impact of power cuts has also been a cause for concern for healthcare facilities.  

The MEC will also provide an update on preparedness of emergency response and trauma units.