Gauteng Health takes steps to limit medical negligence in its facilities

26 Aug 2013

The Gauteng Health Department would like to assure the public that it is taking steps to reduce the number of medical negligence cases involving pregnant mothers and new born babies.

Last year, 120 nurses were trained in midwifery and 79 were trained in advanced midwifery and neonatology. The training of nurses on neonatal resuscitation was also carried out to improve the survival of babies and prevent injuries.

In the 2012/13 financial year, 188 doctors and 203 nurses were trained to manage obstetric emergencies and nurses were trained to use early warning charts.

"There is an on-going training in all facilities to improve attitudes and communication between staff and patients," said Simon Zwane.

The department has also prioritised purchasing of equipment for all hospitals. Last year, cardiotocography and fetal monitors were purchased.

Negligence cases are taken seriously and disciplinary processes are followed where necessary. Last year, 34 staff members in the province were disciplined in relation to medical negligence.

It is also important to note that these cases do not entirely reflect the standard of care provided to patients in our facilities. Other contributory factors include socio-economic challenges and underlying illnesses in patients such as unmanaged hypertension.

"The department encourages pregnant women to attend ante-natal classes so that complications can be attended to immediately rather than at the last minute when an expectant mother is about to give birth," Zwane said.

Statement issued by Simon Zwane, Gauteng Health, August 26 2013

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