Question NW3805 to the Minister of Health
28 October 2022 - NW3805
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1)Whether the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) signed a contract with a certain company (name furnished) for the transportation of blood samples and other medical specimens from 1 September 2022; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details of the contract; (2) whether blood and other medical samples have been (a) collected from various clinics by the specified company and (b) delivered for analysis to laboratories since 1 September 2022; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether he will furnish Mrs M O Clarke with proof that (a) the company has special purpose vehicles for the transportation of medical specimens and (b) their drivers are all certified to transport dangerous goods; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) whether there was a written agreement between the NHLS and NEHAWU to (a) absorb medical transport companies like HEC Logistics and others into the new tender and/or (b) insource the companies into the NHLS; if not; what is the position in this regard; if so, on what date has the agreement been implemented?
Reply:
1. Yes, the NHLS has awarded a contract to ZaMlangeni Holdings for the transportation of blood samples and other medical specimen for a period of five years (05) years, with effect from 01 September 2022.
2. (a) The appointed service provider commenced with the service of collecting and transportation of medical specimen on 01 September 2022 and
(b) Delivered to all the laboratories for analysis. There was a seamless transition between the new and old service providers, however there were some teething problems on the first day in some areas. Management put interventions to resolve the challenges and avoid disruption of service. The services are currently running smooth in all areas across the country.
3. (a) The company has special purpose vehicles for the transportation of medical specimens and
(b) their drivers are all certified to transport dangerous goods. The pictures of the cars, licence discs and compliance certificates of the drivers are hereto attached.
4. The NHLS has not concluded any agreement with the majority union, NEHAWU for the absorption or takeover of the transport companies as those companies are not part of the NHLS / NEHAWU bargaining forum.
END.