Question NW4126 to the Minister of Health
14 December 2023 - NW4126
Tito, Ms LF to ask the Minister of Health
In light of the festive season approaching in a couple of weeks, what measures have been put in place to ensure that hospitals across the Republic are prepared for the increase in medical incidents?
Reply:
In preparation for the busy festive season the following measures have been put in place in hospitals:
- Contingency plans for the festive season are in place for all hospitals and Emergency Medical Services as is done annually.
- Contingency plan is in place for extra personnel in Accident and Emergency units, surgical and orthopaedic wards throughout the festive period due to expected increase in the number of patients requiring surgical intervention.
- Elective, non-urgent surgical procedures are not booked during festive period and theatre space is provided on a 24hour basis for emergencies.
- Leave is strictly monitored, senior managers on call on a 24-hour basis to oversee operations in hospitals during this period.
- In case of disasters, all hospitals are in constant alert and the hospital disaster plans will be activated which includes recalling of staff on leave, at any given time.
- Interprovincial collaborations on transfers are arranged in case of disasters to respond appropriately.
- Stable patients on chronic medication have been given 2 months’ supply of medication to decongest the hospitals.
- Stable patients are discharged home to avail beds for acutely ill and emergency cases.
- Stable patients are given Pass-out should they wish so.
- The Medical Depot ordered buffer stock to accommodate any eventuality.
- Hospitals in the same or close geographical areas have a divert operational policy in place as a mechanism to ensure access to emergency medical services.
END.