Questions and Replies
19 August 2024 - NW122
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1) (a) Which contracts were awarded without going out to tender since 1 January 2016 up to the latest date for which information is available, with a breakdown of the (i) date on which each contract was awarded, (ii) service provided and (iii) name of the company to which each contract has been awarded in each case, (b) what was the value of each contract and (c) what are the reasons for the deviation from the tender process in each case; (2) which of the specified contracts are (a) still running, (b) being reviewed and (c) what are the reasons in each case?
Reply:
1. All the companies that were contracted by the National Department of Health from 1 January 2016 were contracted in terms of the requisite prescripts which are inclusive of PFMA instructions, various Treasury Regulations and instruction notes. In instances where an award was made to a state institution such as the CSIR, the SABC or the SAQA, these awards were based on:
(a) the institutions being recognised as state institutions;
(b) the department having entered into prior memorandums of agreement with institutions; and
(c) the institutions comprising the requisite skills as per the scope of the award.
2. Some of the contracts were awarded for short-term purposes and have expired. Others were awarded on a long-term basis and are being reviewed on an ongoing basis.
END.
19 August 2024 - NW123
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1) What is the total amount that has actually been paid to each company to date that was awarded a contract without going out to tender since 1 January 2016; 2) whether any action has been taken regarding any suspected corruption and/or irregularities in the specified contracts; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. Contracts that were awarded varied in amounts based on the scope of work that was awarded.
2. All contracts were awarded in terms of the requisite prescripts which are inclusive of PFMA instructions, various Treasury Regulations and instruction notes. On this basis no irregularities or corruption has been suspected. In this regard, no further action has been taken.
END.
13 August 2024 - NW169
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health
Whether his department measures the effectiveness of its HIV/AIDS and TB prevention campaigns; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Yes, the Department measures the effectiveness of its HIV/AIDS and TB prevention campaigns through various means and modalities, such as the responses that the campaigns solicit from the intended recipients of the message or target groups and feedback received from the recipients of the messages. The department can confirm that the rate of new HIV infections continues to fall from 164,000 in 2022 to 146,784 in 2023, This is as a result of the robust prevention programmes currently being implemented. The department further receives updates on the effectiveness of the prevention campaigns from the following modalities:
- Tier.Net: This is a routine data collection system that records the outcomes of the people who have gone through HIV testing. The testing rates indicates the effectiveness of the prevention campaigns which is collected through Tier.Net, as backed up by the decline in the incidents rates.
- District Health Information System: This system reports on Condom distribution, HIV Testing services, as well as Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision. It is through this system that the department is able to measure effectiveness of the afore mentioned prevention campaigns.
- Operation Phuthuma Nerve Centre approach: This is a regular programme where reports from the communities, health facilities, districts and provinces are discussed and consolidated for the monthly reporting purposes. This project assists the Department to measure and monitor its performance against the UNAIDS targets of 95-95-95. The country’s performance is currently on 95-80-93
- PMTCT Programme: This programme provides update which shows the rapid decline of the Mother to Child Transmission for HIV and AIDS, which can be confirmed to be at less 1%. This is mainly due to the emphasis on the prevention campaigns.
- Thembisa modelling: This modelling approach is conducted yearly to track HIV and AIDS incidence and prevalence. The modelling also enables the Department to estimate targets for the HIV and AIDS progress towards the attainment of the 95-95-95 targets.
- The Department participates and receives the results of the surveys such as South African National HIV Prevalence, Incidence, Behaviour and Communication Survey (SABSSM VI) which inform sustaining and/or designing new campaigns.
END.
13 August 2024 - NW121
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(a) On what date will the reclassification of the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital be completed and (b) what are the reasons that the specified reclassification process has not yet been completed?
Reply:
a) The Gauteng Department of Health has made a submission to reclassify Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital as a Tertiary Hospital. Therefore, the process to reclassify this hospital is being considered in line with the current guidelines.
b) The National Department of Health is in the process of reviewing regulations 185, relating to the categorisation of hospitals. The consultation process to guide the provinces on the criteria to be followed to reclassify hospitals has commenced. Once the Provinces’ inputs have been consolidated, amendments will be made to regulation 185 relating to categories of hospitals. The amendments will be presented through various approval platforms in the Department of Health and on approval the Minister will sign and publish the amendments.
END.
13 August 2024 - NW155
Nolutshungu, Ms N to ask the Minister of Health
What are the full details of the measures that he has put in place to prevent the seizure of his department’s assets, which may result in loss of lives if not available to service the intended recipients?
Reply:
The Health Sector in consultation with the National Treasury have introduced a budget item classification for ringfencing budgets per province for the payment of legal claims in order to ensure compliance with court orders to circumvent and/ or mitigate the risks of assets being attached and ultimately seized.
END.
13 August 2024 - NW168
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health
(1) What strategy is his department implementing to combat severe acute malnutrition? (2) whether a cross-sectoral approach with other departments such as the Departments of Social Development, Basic Education and others is being utilised; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. Strategies for addressing severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in young children include:
- Routine implementation of evidence-based interventions aimed at the prevention, early identification and treatment of SAM, namely promotion of breastfeeding and complementary feeding, growth monitoring and promotion, active case finding and provision of specialised formulated therapeutic foods to promote catch-up growth.
- Scaling up of community-based screening for acute malnutrition including involving caregivers at household level to improve early detection.
- Inclusion of SAM case management in all relevant guidelines including the Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses (IMCI), the Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (IMAM) and the Essential Medicine List (EML) Standard Treatment Guidelines at primary health care and hospital levels.
- Continuous capacity building of frontline staff in the management of children with severe acute malnutrition at high risk of death.
- Improved clinical governance through monthly death reviews and clinical audits to identify and address modifiable factors at hospital level.
- Data verification and use of data for action at all levels of care.
- Implementation of targeted operational plans based on malnutrition bottleneck analyses conducted in selected districts.
- Community health workers conduct tracing and tracking of all discharged children with severe acute malnutrition as part of follow-up care and support.
2. Yes. The Department of Health continues to work in collaboration with other sectors across all levels to address food insecurity, malnutrition and hunger through implementation of the National and Provincial Food and Nutrition Security plans. The key objectives of these plans include:
- Establishment of inclusive local food value chains to support access to nutritious, affordable foods (led by the Department of Agriculture).
- Expand targeted social protection measures and sustainable livelihood programmes (led by the Department of Social Development)
- Scale-up of high impact nutrition interventions targeting women, infants and children (led by the Department of Health)
- Influence people across the life-cycle to make informed food and nutrition decisions through an integrated communications strategy.
- Develop a monitoring and evaluation system for Food and Nutrition Security in South Africa and establish an integrated risk management system for monitoring related risks (led by the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Performance Monitoring and Evaluation and Statistics South Africa).
- Entrepreneurship and Entrepreneurial skills development (led by the Department of Small Business Development).
END.
01 August 2024 - NW18
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1) Whether medical practitioners, such as doctors and nurses, who conduct family counselling sessions at the intensive care unit (ICU) of an immediate biologically-related patient who is being cared for in the ICU are allowed to make family members sign an acknowledgement on a blank counselling session form of the Critical Care Society of Southern Africa (CCSSA); if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether (a) medical practitioners are allowed to write information discussed within the counselling session in a separate hard-cover notebook about a patient and (b) family members of the patient must also sign the specified notebook entry of such a counselling session; if not, in each case, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case; (3) whether the family members who have attended the counselling session have the right to review the notes which have been jotted down on the CCSSA form and within the hard-cover notebook prior to signing an acknowledgement of the session; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) whether medical practitioners are allowed to refuse a patient's family access to the patient's medical information, notes in the file and/or any other record; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (5) whether any actions are instituted against CCSSA when a violation regarding access to a patient’s information occurs; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details? NW19E
Reply:
1. There is no agreement between the Health Department and the CCSSA regarding the management of patients in the ICU. It is therefore not mandatory for medical practitioners, such as doctors and nurses, who conduct family counselling sessions at the intensive care unit (ICU) to use the counselling session form of the Critical Care Society of Southern Africa (CCSSA). Patient files and/or forms used should always have the patient’s details on them.
2. Any information about a patient management is captured in a ICU patient file not in a separate hard-cover notebook.
3. It is not mandatory for medical practitioners, to use counselling session form or the hard cover notebook of the Critical Care Society of Southern Africa (CCSSA). It is normal practice for family members to request and be allowed to access notes written about patients but there are strict processes that need to be followed in terms of Promotion of Access to Information Act.
This Act gives the constitutional right of access to any information held by the State and any information held by private bodies that is required for the exercise and protection of any rights.
4. Family members should not be denied access to patient’s medical information. However, there are processes that need to be followed in terms of Promotion of Access to information Act which gives the constitutional right of access to any information held by the State and any information held by private bodies that is required for the exercise and protection of rights including patients’ rights.
5. Health facilities are also guided by Promotion of Access to Information Act. If there is any violation of this right, the Promotion of Access to Information Act should be consulted and its provisions applied for redress. Families can also approach the Health Ombud’s Office to lay a complaint and request investigation where they feel that a violation regarding access to a patient’s information has occurred.
END.
01 August 2024 - NW51
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health
What urgent steps of intervention have been undertaken by his department to address renovation delays prohibiting the performance of emergency surgeries at Leratong Hospital in Katlehong, Gauteng?
Reply:
It is important to advise the Honourable Member that Leratong Hospital is not in Katlehong.
According to the Gauteng Department of Health there was a delay in attending to the damaged and collapsed theatre ceilings at Leratong Hospital in Krugersdorp. However, emergency procurement of service providers was done and the renovations were completed in all theatres in April 2024.
The two chillers that were found to be out of service and affecting the theatres' functioning are in full service. One chiller just required recoding, which was done during May 2024. The second chiller required new parts, which were also sourced and installed during May 2024 and are now fully functional. All eight (8) theatres in Leratong Hospital are fully functional, and surgeries are being performed.
END.
01 August 2024 - NW31
Gcilishe, Ms S to ask the Minister of Health
Whether, in light of how Government continues to pay R71 billion per annum for its 1,3 million employees to access private hospitals that compete with public hospitals, he has considered repurposing portions of the public hospitals into private sections to be used by government employees so that billions of Rand will circulate in the public sector; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
Currently there is no plan to repurpose portions of the public hospitals into private sections. Instead many public hospitals also attend to patients that have medical aid cover who prefer to be cared for in public hospitals. These patients get admitted to normal wards like all other patients without discrimination. There was an attempt previously to create private wards inside the public hospitals which was counter-productive as Doctors would bring their private patients and pay more attention to them at the expense of public patients. The current experience is that an increasing number of privately funded patients also seek care in public hospitals.
END.
01 August 2024 - NW50
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health
What are the relevant details of the forms of assistance that his department has provided to the family of a 35-year-old female patient who died due to the fire that occurred in Dr George Mkhari Hospital?
Reply:
According to the Gauteng Department of Health, the case of a 35-year-old female patient who died due to the fire that occurred at the Dr George Mukhari Hospital is still under investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and has also been referred to the Health Ombudsman. The Gauteng Department of Health provided psycho-social support to the family and assisted in the burial of the deceased patient.
END.
01 August 2024 - NW19
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1) Whether doctors who hold the status of a medical officer and not that of a medical specialist or intensivist are allowed to administer treatment to a patient in the intensive care unit (ICU); if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether (a) medical officers and (b) intensivists are allowed to certify a patient dead within the ICU; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) what surgeons are allowed to administer and/or recommend treatment to patients in ICU; (4) whether a nurse and/or doctor within the ICU is allowed to switch off the life support systems to a patient without seeking the permission of the patient’s family and/or making the family aware of the proposed decision; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (5) what actions may be taken by the patient’s family through the medical process if due process to switch off a patient’s life support system without seeking the permission of the patient’s family and/or making the family aware of the proposed decision has not been followed?
Reply:
- Doctors who hold the status of a medical officer and not that of a medical specialist or intensivist are allowed to administer treatment to a patient in the intensive care unit (ICU) provided that they have received appropriate basic training for managing critically ill patients or are under the supervision of a medical specialist or intensivist.
- Medical officers and intensivists are allowed to certify a patient dead within the ICU.
- All surgeons are allowed to administer and/or recommend treatment to patients in ICU.
- No nurse and/or doctor within the ICU is allowed to switch off the life support systems without seeking the permission of the patient’s family and/or making the family aware of the proposed decision. If a need arises, families are notified and counselled and should they agree, they are given a consent form to sign, authorising the switching off of the life support.
- In an instance where due process to switch off a patient’s life support system was not followed, the family should engage the hospital authorities and submit a complaint with the senior hospital management.
END.
01 August 2024 - NW20
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1) Whether (a) nurses who work in the high care and intensive care units (ICU) are required to register with the Critical Care Society of Southern Africa (CCSSA); if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (2) whether doctors who are not intensivists are allowed to work in the ICU and administer treatment to patients; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether the ICU holds a separate medical file from the main hospital file of each patient; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) how can family members receive a copy of all ICU records, including the CCSSA counselling session notes?
Reply:
- It is not mandatory for nurses who work in the high care and intensive care units (ICU) to register with the Critical Care Society of Southern Africa (CCSSA).
- South Africa does not have a large number of medical doctors who are trained as intensivists (ICU specialists). Medical doctors who are not intensivists are therefore allowed to work in the ICU and administer treatment to patients provided that they have received appropriate basic training for managing critically ill patients.
- ICU holds a separate medical file from the main hospital file of each patient At the ICU the clinicians use ICU charts to capture patient’s condition during their stay.
- The family members are required to follow processes as stipulated by the Promotion of Access to information Act which gives the constitutional right of access to any information held by the State and any information held by private bodies that is required for the exercise and protection of any rights. They should therefore submit an application to the hospital chief executive officer requesting access to the record/s.
END.
19 April 2024 - NW838
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
(1)What are the dates of the (a) finalisation and (b) implementation of the plan, which his department developed in collaboration with the UN Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC), to establish a whistle-blowing protection and risk assessment and mitigation in the procurement system within the health sector; (2) whether the plan will be implemented in all provinces simultaneously; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
a) The dates of finalisation and the implementation of the plan to establish a whistle-blowing protection and risk assessment and mitigation in the procurement system within the health sector could not be confirmed yet as the UN Office of Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is still in the process of workshopping provinces to assess their risks and development strategies to mitigate the identified risks in their respective provinces. So far only the Free State Province has taken the offer and is participating in the workshop, no other provinces have indicated their intention to participate yet.
b) It is intended that the plan will be implemented after the workshops are completed.
END.
19 April 2024 - NW818
Tito, Ms LF to ask the Minister of Health
Whether he has been informed that the Betty Gaetsewe Clinic in Kimberley in the Northern Cape is turning away patients without them being attended to, due to nursing staff shortages; if not, why not; if so, what steps will he take in this regard?
Reply:
According to the Northern Cape Department of Health, Betty Gaetsewe Clinic has seven Professional Nurses, sufficient to run the facility according to Workload Indicator for Staffing Needs(WISN) prescripts. On the day of the incident, 22 February 2024, which may have left an impression that patients’ are turned away, three professional nurses were booked off sick. In addition another nurse was out in the field with the Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination campaign, while another was on annual leave. The number of professional nurses was thus reduced to three.
When the health district became aware of the situation, it seconded one professional nurse from Galeshewe Day Hospital to work at the clinic for a period of two weeks to mitigate the challenge. The number of professional nurses increased to four on that particular day and going forward.
The situation has since returned to normal.
END.
19 April 2024 - NW835
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1)What total (a) number of cases of corruption has each provincial health department recorded and (b) amount of funds have been lost to corruption in each case since 1 January 2023; (2) whether there have been any investigations that were conducted regarding the specified cases; if not, why not; if so, what (a) consequence management measures have been taken as a result and (b) are the further relevant details; (3) whether his department opened any criminal cases because of such investigations; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Table below reflects the details in this regard, according to the Provincial Departments of Health.
PROVINCE |
Part 1 - CASES OF CORRUPTION |
Part 2 - INVESTIGATIONS PROCESS |
Part 3 - OPENING OF CRIMINAL CASES |
Eastern Cape |
a) number of cases is fifteen (15) b) amount of funds have been lost has not yet been quantified. |
a) consequence management
|
|
Limpopo |
a) number of cases is eight (8) b) amount involved is R1, 265, 418. |
a) consequence management
|
|
Northern Cape |
a) number of cases is one (1) b) amount of funds is R10 000 which the official accepted as a bribe. |
a) consequence management The disciplinary process was instituted against the affected official and a sanction of three (3) months suspension without salary and a final written warning pronounced. |
Yes, the case was reported to SAPS. (Hartswater) Case no. Case 88/04/2019. The matter went to court and the official was found guilty and a fine of R 120 000.00 or three (3) years imprisonment. Furthermore, the two (2) years of the sentence was suspended for 5 years. |
KwaZulu-Natal |
a) number of cases is six (06) b) amount involved that is R282 191,00 |
a) consequence management
|
One (01) criminal case has been opened and the Department intends to register more criminal cases upon proving the allegations of corruption. |
Western Cape |
a) There is one (1) case that was reported. b) Amount of funds involved could not be qualified (it relates that amount that was supposed to be levied against the service provider). |
a) consequence management
|
Yes, SAPS case number SCI Equiry 04/03/2023 |
Mpumalanga |
a) There are two (2) cases that are reported. b) Financial loss not yet qualified. |
a) consequence management
|
No criminal case that has been opened as the investigation is still underway. |
Northwest |
a) None b) None |
a) consequence management
|
None |
Free State |
a) Number of cases were reported are eight (8). b) Amount involved is that. R 2 806 141.66 |
a) consequence management
|
Yes,
|
Gauteng |
a) There are six (6) cases that are reported. b) The amount involved is not yet qualified. |
a) consequence management.
|
None |
END.
19 April 2024 - NW837
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1) What are the relevant details of the strategy of (a) his department and (b) each provincial department to protect whistle blowers; (2) whether he will furnish Mrs M O Clarke with his department’s (a) approved Fraud Prevention Plan and (b) Whistle Blowing Policy Statement; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details; (3) whether the (a) Fraud Prevention Plan and (b) Whistle Blowing Policy Statement were adopted and implemented nationally and in each province; if not, what is the position in each case; if so, what are the relevant details; (4) what are the relevant details of the full report on the outcomes of the strategy of (a) his department and (b) each provincial department to protect whistle blowers?
Reply:
The Table below reflects the details in this regard, according to the Provincial Departments of Health:
PROVINCE |
RESPONSE |
KwaZulu-Natal |
1. (a)
|
2. Yes, approved copy is available. b) Yes, approved copy is available. |
|
3.Ta) he Department has an approved Fraud Prevention Strategy that has its implementation plan, the Whistleblowing Policy stipulates that irrespective of whether the reporting person chooses to disclose or not, their identity, the Minimum Information Security Standard (MISS) shall be always exercised, and information shall be communicated on a “need to know basis”. b) Fraud Prevention governance documents were adopted by the relevant policy steering committees and subsequently approved by the Head of Department, they are being rolled during the continuous Fraud Prevention Awareness workshops for implementation and adherence by all officials of the Department. |
|
4. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health has a responsibility to protect the whistle blowers by ensuring that their identity remains confidential. The strategy is being communicated to all officials of the Department, through various channels of communication. |
|
Mpumalanga |
1(a) In the Department there are guidelines which are issued in terms of the Protected Disclosures Act, 2000 (Act 26 of 2000), and are aimed at assisting and protect employees who wish to disclose certain information. Employees who are reporting suspected cases of fraud and/or corruption are protected from retribution, vilification, or other consequences pursuant to the terms of the Department fraud and corruption. |
2. Yes, Mpumalanga Department of health has an approved Fraud Prevention Plan. a) Yes, Mpumalanga Department of health has an approved Whistle Blowing Policy. |
|
3. a) Fraud Prevention Plan was adopted and implemented by the Mpumalanga Department of Health and Risk Management unit regularly conducts training workshops on Fraud and prevention plan. b) Whistle Blowing Policy was adopted and implemented by the Mpumalanga Department of Health and Risk Management unit regularly conducts training workshops on Whistle Blowing Policy Statement. |
|
4. a) The Department does not have a full report with details on the outcomes of the strategy to protect whistle blowers however, the Department depends entirely on the Protected disclosure Act, 26 of 2000 that make provision for protection of employees. |
|
Limpoppo |
1. (a) The department has developed and implements the “Whistle Blowing Policy” and the underlying pillars of the policy to protect the Whistle blowers are:
|
2. The department has approved Fraud Prevention Plan. a) The department has approved Whistle Blowing Policy. |
|
3. a) Fraud Prevention Plan was adopted and implemented. b) Whistle Blowing Policy was adopted and implemented. |
|
4. Every effort is to ensure that the whistle blowers are protected and that their identity remains confidential. |
|
Western Cape |
4. (a) The department has a Whistle-blowing Policy document and there are relevant Annexures in place which supports the implementation of the Policy. |
2. (a) The department has approved Fraud Prevention Plan which is implemented. (b) The department has approved Whistle Blowing Policy which is implemented |
|
3.
|
|
4.
|
|
Free State; |
(1)
|
(2) (a) The department has approved Fraud Prevention and Implementation Plan. (b) The department has approved Whistle Blowing Policy and Implementation Procedure. |
|
(3) Both the Fraud Prevention Policy – Implementation Plan and the Whistle Blowing Policy were approved I the current financial year (2023-2024) 4. None |
|
Gauteng, |
1.
|
2.
|
|
3)
|
|
4. a) None |
|
Northern Cape; |
|
Northwest; |
(1) a) Reporters are protected in terms of Protected Disclosures Act and the departmental whistle blowing policy from any form of detriment. |
(2) (a) Approved Fraud prevention policy and strategy for 2023/2024 are readily available. (b) Whistle blowing policy for 2023/2024 financial year is readily available. |
|
(3) (a) Fraud Prevention Policy and strategy were approved and implemented throughout the department. b) Whistle blowing policy was approved and implemented throughout the department |
|
(4)
|
|
Eastern Cape |
|
National |
1. (a)
The Health Sector Anti-Corruption Forum (HSACF) is playing a critical role in eradicating corruption and the protection of whistle blowers. |
2. (a) The NDoH has the following strategic documents in place:-
|
|
3. Both the Fraud Prevention Plan and Whistle Blowing Policy were adopted and subsequently approved by the Accounting Officer. |
|
4.
|
END.
19 April 2024 - NW839
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
Whether the National Health Laboratory Service analysed any substances relating to Fentanyl; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what (a) total number of such tests has been done since 1 January 2023 and (b) number of the tests were positive?
Reply:
According to the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS):
a) The Forensic Chemistry Laboratory has done one Fentanyl test since 01 January 2023.
b) The one test that was done was positive.
END.
19 April 2024 - NW840
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
(1)(a) What total amount is outstanding for accruals at the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and (b) for how long has the specified amount been outstanding; (2) what number of service providers have not been paid within the prescribed requirement of 30 days?
Reply:
1. (a) Total amount outstanding for 2023/24 financial year on accruals sits at R210,711,150.55;
(b) More than 30 Days to over 121 Days.
2. 357 suppliers have not been paid within the prescribed requirement of 30 days.
END.
12 April 2024 - NW774
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
What are the details of the types of surgery backlogs, including but not limited to elective surgeries (a) at each specified hospital (b) in each province?
Reply:
(1) Surgeries are conducted at the hospital level and every hospital monitors and maintains records of the number of patients awaiting surgery at all public hospitals in the Republic. Surgical backlogs numbers are not static. As provinces do operations, the numbers under each category and in each province change.
Province |
Types of surgery backlogs |
|
a) at each specified hospital |
(b) in each province |
|
Limpopo |
Mankweng Hospital
|
|
Polokwane Hospital:
|
Province |
Types of surgery backlogs |
|
a) at each specified hospital |
(b) in each province |
|
Free State |
Universitas hospital
|
|
Pelonomi hospital
|
||
Bongani hospital
|
||
Boitumelo hospital
|
||
Dihlabeng hospital
|
||
Mofumahadi Manapo hospital
|
Province |
Types of surgery backlogs |
|
a) at each specified hospital |
(b) in each province |
|
Kwa Zulu Natal |
Prince Mshiyeni Hospital
|
|
Addington
|
||
Greys Hospital
|
||
Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital
|
||
RK Khan Hospital
|
||
RK Khan Hospital
|
Province |
Types of surgery backlogs |
|
a) at each specified hospital |
(b) in each province |
|
Mpumalanga |
The hospitals that are affected by the backlogs are the following:
Types of surgery backlogs
|
|
Northwest |
Klerksdorp / Tshepong Hospital
|
|
Job Shimankana Tabane Hospital
|
||
Potchefstroom Hospital
|
||
Mafikeng Provincial Hospital
|
||
Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital
|
- According to Gauteng Department of Health, the province does not have any backlogs.
- The response from the Western Cape Department of health did not address the question that was asked.
- Response from Eastern Cape and Northern Cape Provinces still outstanding.
END.
12 April 2024 - NW775
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
(a) What is the total amount of accruals outstanding for each province, (b) for how long has this amount been outstanding in each case and (c) what is the total number of service providers not paid within the required 30 day period in each province?
Reply:
The following information is as received from the provinces.
PROVINCES |
a) TOTAL AMOUNT OF ACCRUALS OUTSTANDING |
b) AGEING - PERIOD THE AMOUNT BEEN OUTSTANDING IN EACH CASE |
(C)TOTAL NUMBER OF SERVICE PROVIDERS NOT PAID WITHIN THE REQUIRED 30-DAY PERIOD 2023/2024 |
||
R THOUSAND |
2022/23 FY |
2023/24FY (29 FEB 2024) |
2022/23 FY |
2023/24 FY |
|
Eastern Cape |
R4, 764, 773 |
R5,132,000 |
Current: R1, 626, 945 More than 30 days R3, 137, 828 |
Above 30 days R525,685 Above 60 days R268,465 Above 90 days R345,637 Above 120 days R2,746,364 |
534 suppliers |
Free State |
R682,362 |
R922,130 |
Current: R369,764 More than 30 days R312,598 |
>R621,746 < Above R300,383 |
3121 number of suppliers/ invoices were not paid within 30 days |
Gauteng |
R6, 827, 872 |
R5, 926, 667 |
Current: R2, 040, 370 More than 30 days R4, 787, 502 |
Above 30 days R874, 366 Above 60 days R618, 711 Above 90 days R2, 928, 777 |
2, 099 number of suppliers |
Kwazulu-Natal |
R1, 838, 121 |
R1,694,242 |
Current: R1, 548, 239 More than 30 days R289, 882 |
R355,000 was more than 80 days overdue |
514 service providers affected |
Limpopo |
R 767, 038 |
R 358 023 |
Current: R718, 330 More than 30 days R48, 708 |
1957 transactions amounting to R356 2667 are within 30 days. 40 outstanding transactions amounting to R1 756 are more than 30 days. |
28 service providers were not paid within the required 30-day period. |
Mpumalanga |
R825, 870 |
R 87 081 |
Current: R706, 780 More than 30 days R119, 090 |
R952 |
1439 suppliers |
Northern Cape |
R514 622 |
R842 875 |
30 Days-R56 991 30+ Days R457 631 |
Current R153 429 Above 30 Days R689 446 |
170 354 service providers |
North West |
R 959 137 |
R339,687 |
Current: R619, 450 More than 30 days R339, 687 |
More than 30 days R339,687 |
4 330 suppliers |
Western Cape Accruals (A) Payables (P) |
R 589 529 R 289 746 (A) R 299 783 (P) |
R 135 622 R 88 093 (A) R 47 528 (P) |
R251 531 (A) (0-30days) R 38 215 (A) (30+ days) R293 951 (P) (0-30days) R 5 832 (P) (30+ days) |
R 31 535 (A) (0-30 days) R 56 558 (A) (30+ days) R 42 869 (P) (0-30 days) R 4 659 (P) (30+ days) |
1094 (for the period 1 April 2023- 29 February 2024) (equates to 1.75% of all payments) |
END.
12 April 2024 - NW796
George, Dr DT to ask the Minister of Health
With reference to the 2024-25 financial year, as per Budget Vote 18, what are the itemised details for each of the 28 individuals employed under Programme 2 of the National Health Insurance at salary levels 13 to 16, including their (a) respective salary level and (b) detailed job description for their roles?
Reply:
From the Department’s PERSAL records, there are 21 posts on salary levels 13 to 16. Of these posts, the NHI Branch has managed to fill ten (10).
a) The respective salary levels for each of the filled posts are shown in the column named ‘Notch’ of the table below.
b) Additionally, the Job Titles are listed in column 2 of the table. Detailed job descriptions for each post and key performance duties as were published in the advertisements for the posts are included as an annexure to this response.
POST JOB TITLE DESCRIPTION |
FILLED/ VACANT |
FILLED/ VACANT DATE |
POST SALARY LEVEL |
NOTCH |
|
1 |
DEPUTY DIRECTOR-GENERAL: NHI |
FILLED |
20210606 |
15 |
1663581 |
2 |
TECHNICAL SPECIALIST: HEALTH ECONOMIST |
FILLED |
20180401 |
15 |
1817142 |
3 |
DIR: MEDICAL DEVICES & HEALTH TECHNOLOGY PROCUREME |
FILLED |
20230701 |
13 |
1268919 |
4 |
CD: SECTOR WIDE PROCUREMENT |
FILLED |
20230201 |
14 |
1371558 |
5 |
TECHNICAL EXPERT |
FILLED |
20130201 |
14 |
1476000 |
6 |
DIR: PHARMACEUTICAL ECONOMIC EVALUATION |
FILLED |
20110401 |
13 |
1306665 |
7 |
DIR: BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE & DATA ANALYTICS |
FILLED |
20230601 |
13 |
1306665 |
8 |
CHIEF DIRECTOR: HEALTH SYSTEM DIGITAL INFORMATION |
FILLED |
20230101 |
14 |
1433289 |
9 |
CD:USER & SERVICE PROVIDER MANAGEMENT |
FILLED |
20230915 |
14 |
1371558 |
10 |
CD: HEALTH CARE BENEFITS & PROVIDER PAYMENT |
FILLED |
20230904 |
14 |
1371558 |
END.
12 April 2024 - NW797
George, Dr DT to ask the Minister of Health
Whether, with the expectation of the additional roles being created within Programme 2 of the National Health Insurance over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework period, he will detail the planned positions including the proposed salary level and job descriptions for each; if not, why not; if so, what are the further, relevant details?
Reply:
The National Department of Health requested the Minister of Public Service and Administration to consider a request for strengthening the NHI Branch of the department on 16 May 2022.
On 2 June 2022, the Minister of Public Service and Administration approved the creation of 44 new technical positions for the NHI Programme in the Department.
The posts were advertised in the media (Sunday Times) on 28 August 2022. All job descriptions, duties and remuneration levels were advertised as per the Public Service requirements. The relevant remuneration levels of public servants are available in public domain. Details are contained in the annexure.
There are currently no plan for posts addition to the 44 posts mentions above to be created within the National Health Insurance Branch in the Department.
END.
12 April 2024 - NW770
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
(1)(a) When last was each forensic pathology unit’s refrigerators serviced, (b) how often are they serviced, (c) what is the total number of refrigerators that are not functional and (d) on what date will they be repaired or replaced per province in each case; (2) whether there are contingency plans in place for each of the units without functioning refrigerators; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so; what are the relevant details?
Reply:
(1) and (2) Please see table below
Responses were received from the Free State, Gauteng, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and Western Cape Provinces only. Information from other provinces is yet to be received.
Free State Department of Health |
|||||
Name of facility |
Date of last service |
How often are they serviced |
Number of refrigerators not functional |
Dates for repairs or replacements |
Contingency plan |
1. Bloemfontein Forensic Mortuary |
December 2023 |
Every 3 months |
5 |
Date of repair or replacement: awaiting infrastructure approval |
Bloemfontein FPS currently has 12 functional refrigerators. Surrounding state hospitals like Pelonomi and Universitas, Botshabelo provide refrigeration and storage of bodies when the demand exceeds capacity of Bloemfontein Forensic mortuary. |
2. Botshabelo Forensic Mortuary |
December 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Bloemfontein Forensic mortuary has enough capacity to provide refrigeration and storage of bodies when the demand exceeds capacity at Botshabelo mortuary |
3. Phuthaditjhaba Forensic Mortuary |
December 2023 |
Every 3 months |
6 |
Date of repairs or replacement: appointed service provider for repairs to visit facility on the 28 March 2024 |
|
4. Bethlehem Forensic Mortuary |
December 2023 |
Every 3 months |
3 |
Date of repair or replacement: Appointed service provider for repairs to visit facility on the 28 March 2024 |
State hospitals in the region including Elizabeth Ross, Thebe and Phekolong hospital provide additional 26 body storage capacity for contingency refrigerating and storage of bodies, when the demand exceeds the capacity in the Forensic Mortuaries, in Phuthaditjhaba and Bethlehem |
5. Welkom Forensic Mortuary |
February 2024 |
Every 3 month |
6 |
Date of repair or replacement: awaiting infrastructure approval. |
Bloemfontein Forensic mortuary has enough capacity to provide refrigeration and storage of bodies when the demand exceeds capacity at Welkom mortuary. |
6. Kroonstad Forensic Mortuary |
March 2024. |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
|
7. Sasolburg Forensic Mortuary |
November 2023 |
Every 3 months |
15 |
Date of repairs or replacement: awaiting infrastructure approval |
Bloemfontein Forensic Mortuary has enough capacity to provide refrigeration and storage of bodies when the demand exceeds capacity for both Kroonstad and Sasolburg mortuary |
Limpopo Department of Health |
|||||
Name of facility |
Date of last service |
How often are they services |
Number of refrigerators not functional |
Dates for repairs or replacements |
Contingency plan |
1. Polokwane FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 6 months |
0 |
N/A |
All refrigerators are functional, continue to monitor the gauges. |
2. Lebowakgomo FPS |
February 2024 |
Every 6 months |
0 |
N/A |
All refrigerators are functional, continue to monitor the gauges. |
3. Mokopane FPS |
December 2023 |
Every 6 months |
0 |
N/A |
All refrigerators are functional, continue to monitor the gauges. |
4. Warmbaths FPS |
27 November, 11 December, 1 February 5th March 2024 |
Every 6 months |
3 |
May 2024 |
Contingency plan is available, all refrigerators functional, continue to monitor the gauges |
5. Tshilidzini FPS |
February 2024 |
Every 3 months |
4 |
June 2024 |
Purchase order is in progress to procure compressors |
6. Elim FPS |
October 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
All refrigerators are functional, continue to monitor the gauges. |
7. Groblersdal FPS |
February 2024 |
Every 6 months |
0 |
N/A |
All the refrigerators functional, continue to monitor the gauges. |
8. St Rita’s FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 6 months |
0 |
September 2024 |
Contingency plan available, all refrigerators functional, continue to monitor the gauges. |
9. Letaba FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 6 months |
0 |
N/A |
Contingency plan available, all refrigerators functional, continue to monitor the gauges |
10. Kgapane FPS |
November 2023 |
Every 6 months |
4 |
April 2024 |
Contingency plan available, |
11. Maphutha Malatji FPS |
25 August 2023 |
Every 6 months |
6 |
April 2024 |
Request to repair the broken refrigerators is under way, continue to monitor the gauges |
12. Nkhensani FPS |
21 November 2023 25 March 2024 |
Every 6 months |
0 |
N/A |
Contingency plan available, all refrigerators functional, continue to monitor the gauges |
• 3 months vs. 6 months depends on the manufacturer specifications.
Western Cape Department of Health |
|||||
Name of facility |
Date of last service |
How often are they services |
Number of refrigerators not functional |
Dates for repairs or replacements |
Contingency plan |
1. Beaufort West FPS |
January 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
2. Ceres FPS |
January 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
3. George FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
4. Hermanus FPS |
December 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
5. Knysna FPS |
November 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
6. Laingsburg FPS |
February 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
7. Malmensbury FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
8. Mossel Bay FPS |
January 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
9. Observatory FP Institution |
March 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
10. Oudtshoorn FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
11. Paarl FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
12. Riversdale FPS |
November 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
13. Tygerberg FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
14. Vredenburg FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
15. Vredendal FPS |
November 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
16. Worcester FPS |
February 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
Maintenance plans are in place. Refrigerators are repaired immediately either via maintenance contracts or emergency delegations. |
North-West Department of Health |
|||||
Name of facility |
Date of last service |
How often are they services? |
Number of refrigerators not functional |
Dates for repairs or replacements |
Contingency plan |
1. Mafikeng FPS |
March 2024 |
When need arises |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
2. Lichtenburg FPS |
December 2023 |
When need arises |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
3. Brits FPS |
When need arises |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
|
4. Phokeng FPS |
When need arises |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
|
5. Potchefstroom FPS |
March 2024 |
When need arises |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
6. Tshepong FPS |
When need arises |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
|
7. Vryberg FPS |
When need arises |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
Gauteng Department of Health |
|||||
Name of facility |
Date of last service |
How often are they services |
Number of refrigerators not functional |
Dates for repairs or replacements |
Contingency plan |
1. Johannesburg FPS |
October 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
2. Roodepoort FPS |
October 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
3. Germiston FPS |
November 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
4. Springs FPS |
December 2023 |
Every 3 months |
1 |
Awaiting appointment of service provider |
|
5. Heidelberg FPS |
December 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
6. Diepkloof FPS |
October 2023 |
Every 6 months |
6 |
11/04/2024 |
|
7. Sebokeng FPS |
February 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
8. Pretoria FPS |
December 2023 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
9. Bronkhorstpruit FPS |
January 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
10. Ga-Rankuwa FPS |
March 2024 |
Every 3 months |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
11. Carletonville FPS |
October 2023 |
Every 6 months |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
- 3 months vs. 6 months depends on the manufacturer specifications
Mpumalanga Department of Health |
|||||
Name of facility |
Date of last service |
Hoe often are they services? |
Number of refrigerators not functional |
Dates for repairs or replacements |
Contingency plan in place |
1. Themba FPS |
8 April 2024 |
On request |
2 |
Replacements 2022/2023 : 4-New body storage cabinets loading 6 bodies per unit (Completed) 2024/25:Cool room – work in progress New walk-in freezer – Work in progress |
|
2. Tonga FPS |
8 December 2023 |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
3. Mapulaneng FPS |
20 March 2024 |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
4. Tintswalo FPS |
22 March 2024 |
On request |
1 |
Not stated |
Contingency plans are available. Repairs are done between scheduled minor and major repairs. |
5. Lydenburg FPS |
16 March 2024 |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
6. Barberton FPS |
26 June 2023 |
O request |
1 |
Not stated |
Contingency plans are available. Repairs are done between scheduled minor and major repairs. |
7. Middelburg FPS |
4 April 2024 |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
8. Witbank FPS |
New units installed |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
9. KwaMhlanga FPS |
6 October 2023 |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
10. Belfast FPS |
5 April 2024 |
On request |
1 |
Not stated |
Contingency plans are available. Repairs are done between scheduled minor and major repairs. |
11. Mammethlake FPS |
Reconstruction of the cold room |
On request |
1 |
Currently under construction |
New facility |
12. Delmas FPS |
26 March 2024 |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
13. Ermelo FPS |
6 December 2023 |
On request |
2 |
Not stated |
Contingency plans are available. Repairs are done between scheduled minor and major repairs. |
14. Evander FPS |
18 August 2023 |
On request |
1 |
Contingency plans are available. Repairs are done between scheduled minor and major repairs. |
|
15. Piet Retief FPS |
23 February 2024 |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
16. Standerton FPS |
25 January 2024 |
On request |
1 |
||
17. Volkrust FPS |
4 August 2023 |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
18. Embhuleni FPS |
3 August 2023 |
On request |
1 |
Not stated |
Contingency plans are available. Repairs are done between scheduled minor and major repairs. |
19. Balfour FPS |
New refrigerators |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
20. Bethal FPS |
22 June 2023 |
On request |
2 |
Not stated |
Contingency plans are available. Repairs are done between scheduled minor and major repairs. |
21. Carolina FPS |
10 January 2023 |
On request |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
END.
12 April 2024 - NW771
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
Whether, with reference to funding of the National Health Insurance through taxes, the rate of tax will be uniform for all the individual taxpayers; if not, how will the different taxes be calculated; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
As was debated in the Portfolio Committee of the National Assembly during 2023 and described in Clause 49 of the National Health Insurance Bill, the possible tax amendments will be introduced through a Money Bill by the Minister of Finance as and when appropriate and earmarked for use by the Fund, subject to the transitional arrangements as provided in Section 57 of the Bill.
END.
12 April 2024 - NW772
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1)What is the current vacancy rate for each medical profession, including but not limited to (a) doctors, (b) nurses, (c) physiotherapists, (d) occupational therapists, (e) psychiatrists, (f) psychologists, (g) environmental health practitioners and (h) community health workers; (2) whether there are contingency plans in place for each of the units without functioning refrigerators; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so; what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. The table below reflects vacancy rates as provided by provinces with the Nurses being a consolidated rate across the 3 different categories of nurses (namely: Professional, Registered and Assistant).
PROVINCIAL VACANCY RATES (%) |
|||||||||
Category |
EC |
FS |
GP |
KZN |
LP |
MP |
NC |
NW |
WC |
Medical Officers |
15.0 |
23.7 |
11.4 |
4.9 |
20.37 |
9.62 |
15.2 |
22.0 |
5.85 |
Nurses |
9.0 |
26.5 |
11.2 |
11.2 |
2.96 |
8.0 |
17.4 |
39.0 |
7.39 |
Physiotherapist |
18.0 |
38.8 |
11.0 |
10.4 |
2.03 |
7.0 |
11.8 |
26.0 |
1.73 |
Occupational Therapist |
26.0 |
39.7 |
14.3 |
27.7 |
3.36 |
16.0 |
30.3 |
56.0 |
10.5 |
Psychologist |
17.0 |
17.7 |
21.4 |
36.3 |
4.55 |
7.0 |
41.7 |
61.0** |
9.90 |
Psychiatrist |
20.0* |
30.0* |
15.4 |
87.9 |
73.0 |
50.0 |
50.0 |
8.89 |
|
Environmental Health Pract. |
14.0 |
25.5 |
8.9 |
12.6 |
6.90 |
7.0 |
11.1 |
13.0 |
N/A |
* Rate reflecting Medical Specialists combined
**Inclusive of the Vocational Counsellors
Community Health Workers are contract workers that are appointed on annual contract against abnormal appointments (extra ordinary staff) and vacancy rate not applicable. Furthermore, in the Western Cape the category is appointed through agency and NGO organisation and not accounted for directly under the department.
Provincial Departments are in the process of identifying positions which will be filled during the 2024/25 financial year through the Annual Recruitment Plan (ARP). Once the process is concluded and costed, within the available budget, provinces will be in a position to indicate which positions will be filled by when and recruit accordingly with adverts. There has also been ongoing communication with Provincial Departments of Health to establish the extent of the challenges experienced in this regard.
Table 1: Compensation of employees allocation to provinces
R Thousands |
Financial Year |
||
Programme |
2023/24 Adjusted appropriation |
2024/25 Revised Baseline |
|
Eastern Cape |
20 028 901 |
20 011 717 |
|
Free State |
8 961 049 |
9 516 387 |
|
Gauteng |
38 159 905 |
40 078 685 |
|
KwaZulu-Natal |
33 031 152 |
32 976 479 |
|
Limpopo |
16 441 824 |
17 351 170 |
|
Mpumalanga |
10 927 652 |
11 706 368 |
|
Northern Cape |
3 767 510 |
3 740 702 |
|
North west |
10 567 007 |
11 281 207 |
|
Western Cape |
17 340 851 |
18 055 309 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
159 225 851 |
164 718 024 |
END.
12 April 2024 - NW773
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
What is the (a) total number of (i) toxicologists and (ii) analysts employed at each of the Forensic Chemistry Laboratories (FCLs), (b) vacancy rate at each of the FCLs and (c) average number of tests analysed (i) daily and (ii) monthly at each of the FCLs as at the latest specified date?
Reply:
a) According to the NHLS,
(i) the FCLs do not have toxicologists specifically appointed in their establishments. Instead, FCLs have analytical chemists who also perform the toxicology analyses. They are known as Forensic Analysts and are able to do toxicology tests because they possess and use the same skills / equipment to do the work as a toxicologist would do.
(ii) Analysts employed at each of the FCLs as follows:
FCL |
Number of Forensic Analysts |
Cape Town |
Twenty-four (24) Forensic analysts in total. Of the twenty-four (24), eight (8) analysts are in the toxicology section. |
Johannesburg |
Thirty-six 36 Forensic analysts in total. Of the thirty-six (36), twenty-nine (29) are in the toxicology section. |
Pretoria |
Twenty-five (25) Forensic Analysts in total. Of the twenty-five (25), eleven (11) are in the toxicology section. |
Durban |
Eight (8) Forensic Analysts in total. Durban FCL will expand its service offering to include toxicology testing as soon as the laboratory has relocated to a larger and more suitable building. |
b) The vacancy rates are as follows: Cape Town (4%), Durban (20%), Johannesburg (2%) and Pretoria (28%). In the calculation of the vacancy rate for the Pretoria FCL, ten new positions were included in the total staff establishment. These ten new positions were created to establish the new toxicology section at the Pretoria FCL. The new positions have been advertised and recruitment processes are underway.
c) (i) and (ii) The table below indicates the number of toxicology samples that were completed over the three months from 01 December 2023 to 29 February 2024 across the three laboratories that deliver toxicology testing services. The table also shows the monthly and daily averages achieved over this period. As indicated in the paragraphs below the table, the daily number of toxicology samples completed does not indicate productivity in the laboratories as tests run concurrently and completion periods vary.
Laboratory |
Total completed over 3 months |
Monthly average |
Daily average |
Cape Town |
146 |
49 |
2 |
Johannesburg |
431 |
144 |
7 |
Pretoria |
243 |
81 |
4 |
Toxicology cases are allocated in batches of 15 cases per analyst per month. When cases are received for toxicology testing, the requesting pathologist does not always specify a specific substance to be tested for detection and quantification. Most cases that are received, require a general “screen” for various recreational or illicit drugs, pharmaceutical drugs, poisons, or other substances. Once a substance is detected, additional tests are required to confirm the presence of the substance and to quantify the amount of the substance that was detected.
If a new or rare (unusual) substance is detected through screening tests, a standard to confirm the substance must be procured. Some standards are procured from international suppliers and require special permits to be imported, resulting in delays in the process.
Each toxicology case that is registered in the laboratory may include a varying number of biological specimens that were taken during the autopsy and each specimen may require to be tested more than once or on different sets of instruments, depending on the test requirements. In the pre-analytic stage, specimens may require specialised preparation, depending on the tests that will be conducted.
As a result, it is difficult to quantify the number of toxicology tests that are processed in a day as tests run concurrently and completion periods differ vastly between cases.
END.
02 April 2024 - NW688
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
Whether, with reference to an apparent dispute regarding the treatment of a patient at Ngwelezana Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal in January 2017 (details furnished), in respect of which Dr Morton J Abrams alleges that the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) failed to properly investigate and/or properly handle the matter and help him resolve the issue of his Account Support Page on the Practitioners Portal acknowledging that there are no records of complaint against him, while a Certificate of Status from July 2019 states otherwise, his department will (a) assist the doctor to get to the bottom of his queries and allegations and (b) address the alleged failures of HPCSA; if not, why not; if so, (i) in what way and (ii) what are the further relevant details?
Reply:
a) According to the HPCSA, the case of treatment of a patient at Ngwelezana Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal was duly investigated. The case was considered by the Preliminary Committee of Inquiry and finalised in line with applicable regulations. The outcome of the Inquiry was communicated to both the complainant and the respondent. In terms of the query related to the Certificate of Status (COS), the issue of a pending case against the practitioner was resolved internally and a clean COS was subsequently issued (clean COS for Case no. 25504608 was issued on 7 August 2023);
b) (i) There were delays in the finalisation of the case. This was due to the referral of the practitioner to the Health Committee of the Board for consideration of possible impairments that the practitioner may have had before the case was finalized. This is a necessary step in HPCSA’s internal processes. Also, there were system errors that led to the COS indicating a “pending complaint” against the practitioner when that was not the case;
(ii) Following this case, processes of referral between Committees were reviewed and subsequently streamlined. A new online complaints management system was introduced which allows for ease of monitoring of cases and proper tracking by both complainants and respondents, with regular updates.
END.
02 April 2024 - NW663
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health
What urgent steps of intervention has he taken at the Tintswalo Hospital in Bushbuckridge, with regard to (a) lack of nutritional food for patients, (b) water shortages, (c) infrastructural challenges and (d) shortage of medical staff?
Reply:
a) The official report from Mpumalanga Head of the department (HOD) of Health, Tintswalo hospital has not experienced a lack of nutritional food or food. Food is one of the Department’s non-negotiable priorities to ensure that patients have access to nutritious meals. A specific budget is allocated for food, enabling the hospital to seamlessly provide meals tailored to patients’ dietary needs. Strict food safety standards are adhered to, ensuring the safety of all meals served in the hospital.
b) In 2022, the Department effectively tackled the issue of water scarcity by drilling an additional borehole and installing twenty-eight (28) Jojo tanks, each with a capacity of 10,000 litres, at strategic locations. As a result of these initiatives, access to water is no longer a problem.
c) Temporary measures were implemented to address roof leaks in the wards while awaiting hospital refurbishment in the new financial year.
d) The hospital has sufficient medical staff to provide 24-hour services. It has a complement of 49 medical doctors comprising of 34 full-time doctors, 15 sessional doctors
END.
02 April 2024 - NW666
Siwisa, Ms AM to ask the Minister of Health
(1)What are the reasons that Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital in eThekwini was without electricity for a week which had a negative impact on services provided to patients seeking medical attention; (2) whether the specified issue has been resolved; if not, why not; if so, what (a) led to the hospital finding itself without electricity and (b) are the relevant details?
Reply:
According to the KZN Provincial Health:
1. The hospital electricity supply was disrupted by the breakdown of the eThekwini Metro Council managed substation which supplies the area. The disruption continued for 3 days starting from around 11H35 on Monday 04 March 2024 up to around 11h35 on Wednesday 06 March 2024.
2. The issue was resolved at 11h35 on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. (a) The delay in resolving the situation was caused by the eThekwini Metro workers' strike which prohibited the required staff from responding swiftly. (b) All six generators at the hospital were active during this time preventing the hospital from being completely shut down. This allowed vital services such as critical care, intensive care units, and four theatres to continue operating.
END.
02 April 2024 - NW684
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
What is the (a) policy for unclaimed bodies and (b) current total number of unclaimed bodies at government mortuaries in each province?
Reply:
a) Policy of Unclaimed Bodies
Regulation 341 of 2005: Regulations Regarding the Rendering of Forensic Pathology Service, sections 43 and 44 of the make provision that:
43. A body not identified must be moved to a freezer within seven days of admission, and if such body remains unidentified for 30 days, the municipal council under whose jurisdiction the designated facility is, must ensure that a pauper burial for such body is undertaken.
44. The person in charge of a facility where there is an unidentified body must ensure that complete details of such body, including a photograph, fingerprints, and blood or tissue sample, are taken from the body and archived.
b) Table 1: Total number of unclaimed bodies per Province as of 15 March 2024
Province |
Number of unclaimed bodies |
Free State |
73 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
1336 |
Limpopo |
283 |
Mpumalanga |
82 |
Northen Cape |
51 |
Northwest |
266 |
Western Cape |
|
Eastern Cape |
|
Gauteng |
|
Total |
2091 |
END.
02 April 2024 - NW685
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
What (a) are the full details of the last inspection of each of the forensic pathology units by health inspectors, (b) were the outcomes for each province and (c) whether all units have adequate personal protection equipment?
Reply:
The responses to (a), (b) and (c) are provided in the Table below, according to the Provincial Departments of Health.
Table 1.
Province |
(a) Full Details of last inspection |
(b) Outcomes |
(c) Personal Protective Equipment |
|
Name of Unit |
Date of last inspection |
|||
Eastern Cape |
a. Mount Frere b. Mbizana c. Butterworth d. Adelaide e. Woodbrook f. Bhisho g. Mdantsane h. Queenstown i. Aliwal North j. Mt Fletcher k. Mount Road l. Uitenhage Provincial Hospital m. Gail Road n. Lusikisiki o. Graaff Reinet p. Grahamstown |
23/08/2023 07/07/2023 15/03/2024 22/01/2024 19/03/2024 14/03/2024 28/09/2023 19/02/2024 08/11/2023 15/03/2024 31/01/2024 10/2023 06/2023 11/05/2023 10/10/2023 05/12/2023 |
- 13 Units non-compliant with health norms and standards. - 3 Units have certificates of competence |
- Adequate in 9 Units. - Inadequate in 7 Units. |
Free State |
a. Bloemfontein b. QwaQwa c. Welkom d. Bethlehem e. Kroonstad f. Sasolburg |
30/01/2024 22/02/2024 14/11/2023 16/01/2024 04/03/2024 20/02/2023 |
No Certificate of Competence issued at Bloemfontein and Kroonstad Units due to: - Mechanical failure of fridges. - Lack of or poor maintenance of infrastructure. - Poor health and unhygienic conditions. - Lack or poor medical waste management. 4 Units have certificates of competence |
Adequate in all 7 Units. |
Gauteng |
a. Germiston Forensic Pathology b. Springs Forensic Pathology c. Hillbrow Forensic Pathology d. Roodepoort Police Station Forensic Pathology Services e. Diepkloof f. Pretoria Forensic Pathology g. Garankuwa Forensic Pathology h. Bronkhorstspruit Forensic Pathology i. Sebokeng Forensic Pathology j. Carltonville Forensic Pathology |
17/01/2024 15/01/2024 08/11/2023 11/09/2023 20/09/2023 January 2024 February 2024 August 2023 May 2023 23/01/2024 |
9 Units have certificates of competence Others have not due to: - Poor management of medical waste. - Poor maintenance and infrastructure.
|
Adequate in 10 Units. |
Mpumalanga |
a. Themba b. Tonga c. Mapulaneng d. Tintswalo e. Lydenburg f. Barberton g. Witbank h. Middelburg i. KwaMhlanga j. Belfast k. Mammethlake l. Delmas m. Ermelo n. Evander o. Piet Retief p. Standerton q. Volkrust r. Embhuleni s. Balfour t. Bethal u. Carolina |
19/03/2024 14/03/2024 22/02/2024 15/03/2024 18/03/2023 12/03/2024 Inspected in 2022 31/08/2023 Last inspected before COVID 01/12/2023 Not inspected 19/02/2024 24/11/2023 01/11/2023 21/02/2024 29/09/2023 24/01/2024 22/11/2023 22/09/2023 20/03/2024 24/01/2024 |
12 Units issued with Certificates of competence 9 Units not compliant due to: - Poor maintenance (Fridges not working properly). - Poor infrastructure. |
Adequate in all 21 Units. |
Limpopo |
a. Elim b. Letaba c. St Rita’s d. Groblersdal e. Warmbaths f. Polokwane g. Bela-Bela h. Nkhensani i. Lebowakgomo j. Tshilidzini k. Mokopane l. Kgapane |
February, November, December 2023 Not inspected Not inspected Not inspected Not inspected |
-Elim Unit was non-compliant with health norms and standards. Bela-Bela and Nkhensani were issued with certificates of competence
|
Adequate in all Units. |
North West |
a. Brits Forensic b. Rustenburg Forensic c. Matlosana Forensic d. JB Marks, Potchefstroom e. Joe Morolong Hospital Mortuary f. Lichtenburg Forensic Pathology g. Mahikeng Forensic Pathology |
No date provided No date provided 18/03/2024 20/03/2024 No date provided No date provided No date provided |
Only Matlosana and Potchefstroom have certificates of competence Other units do not have due to: - Poor housekeeping at the storage areas |
- Adequate in 2 Units - Inadequate in 5 Units. |
Northern Cape |
a. Kimberley b. Harstwater c. Springbok d. Calvinia e. De Aar f. Upington |
01/11/2022 13/10/2023 28/02/2024 06/03/2024 13/07/2023 29/06/2022 |
- 4 Units non-compliant to health norms and standards - 2 Units have certificates of competence |
Adequate in all 6 Units. |
Western Cape |
a. No name provided b. Beaufort West c. Laingsburg d. Tygerberg Forensics e. No name provided f. Hermanus g. Vredenburg h. Vredendal i. Malmesbury j. Mossel Bay FPS k. Observatory FP Institution l. Oudtshoorn FPS m. Riversdale FPS n. Swellenndam FPS o. Worcester FPS p. Ceres q. Paarl |
11/10/2023 12/12/2023 13/02/2024 19/03/2024 20/03/2024 No date provided No date provided No date provided No date provided 19/01/2023 19/03/2024 20/03/2024 October 2023 Not Inspected 01/02/2023 11/10/2023 14/05/2021 |
15 Units have certificates of competence - One Unit was not certified with Certificate of Competence |
Adequate in 16 Units. No report for 1 unit |
Kwa Zulu Natal |
a. Madadeni Forensic Mortuary b. Newcastle forensic Mortuary c. Phoenix Medico Legal Mortuary d. Pinetown Forensic Mortuary e. uMzimkhulu Forensic Mortuary f. Ixopo Forensic Mortuary g. Bulwer Forensic Mortuary h. Kokstad Forensic Mortuary i. Kwadukuza Forensic Mortuary j. Richards Bay Forensic Mortuary k. Eshowe Forensic Mortuary l. Park Rynie Forensic m. Port Shepstone Forensic n. Harding Forensic o. Pietermaritzburg Forensic p. New Hanover Forensic Mortuary (SAPS) q. Howick SAPS r. Dundee Forensic Mortuary s. Ladysmith Forensic Mortuary t. Escourt Forensic Mortuary u. Vryheid Forensic Mortuary v. Nongoma Forensic Mortuary w. Greytown Forensic Mortuary |
19/03/2024 No date provided 11/12/2023 03/11/2023 06/12/2021 09/11/2021 No date provided 07/05/2020 29/06/2023 18/03/2024 14/01/2024 05/03/2024 18/03/2024 02/02/2024 19/03/2024 01/02/2023 19/03/2024 18/03/2024 December 2023 18/03/2024 22/12/2023 12/03/2024 11/03/2024 None/ not in use 20/02/2024 |
- 13 Units have certificates of competence - 10 Units are not compliant with health norms and standards due to: - Poor infrastructure. - Poor maintenance. - Areas of continuous improvements highlighted in terms of risk management, infrastructure, and incident reporting. |
- Adequate in 19 Units. - Inadequate in 4 Units. |
END.
02 April 2024 - NW686
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
What (a)(i) is the current total number of forensic pathology units conducting autopsies in each province and (ii) are their names and (b)(i) are the full details of forensic pathology units in each province that should be conducting autopsies, but are unable to and (ii) are the reasons that they are unable to perform the service?
Reply:
a) (i) See Table 1
(ii) See Table 2
Table 1.
Province |
|
|
Names of facilities unable to deliver services |
|
Mpumalanga |
17 |
3 |
Barberton FPS |
Holding facility |
Belfast FPS |
Holding facility |
|||
Standerton FPS |
Infrastructure challenges |
|||
Free State |
7 |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
Kwa-Zulu Natal |
22 |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
Northen Cape |
5 |
1 |
Calvinia FPS |
No medical officer/pathologist appointed, infrastructure challenges |
Limpopo |
12 |
3 |
Musina |
No operational resources |
Lephalale |
No operational resources |
|||
Thabazimbi |
No operational resources |
|||
Northwest |
7 |
0 |
N/A |
N/A |
Gauteng |
||||
Eastern Cape |
||||
Western Cape |
Table 2.
Mpumalanga Department of Health
Forensic Pathology Sites |
|||
a)(ii) names |
Conducting autopsies |
Not Conducting autopsies |
Reasons for not conducting autopsies |
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
Holding facility |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
Holding facility |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
Challenges of Infrastructure |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
N/A |
|
|
YES |
Challenges of Infrastructure |
|
17 |
4 |
Frees State Department of Health
Name of facility |
Conducting autopsies (YES/NO) |
Not conducting autopsies (Y/N) |
Reasons for not conducting autopsies |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Kwa-Zulu Natal Department of Health
Name of facility |
Conducting autopsies (YES/NO) |
Not conducting autopsies (Y/N) |
Reasons for not conducting autopsies |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A Wrong Province |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Forensic Mortuary |
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
23 |
0 |
No 5 to be removed |
Limpopo Department of Health
Name of facility |
Conducting autopsies (YES/NO) |
Not conducting autopsies (Y/N) |
Reasons for not conducting autopsies |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
|||
|
YES |
Holding facility |
|
|
YES |
Holding facility |
|
|
YES |
Holding facility |
Northwest Department of Health
Name of facility |
Conducting autopsies (YES/NO) |
Not conducting autopsies (Y/N) |
Reasons for not conducting autopsies |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
Western Cape
Name of facility |
Conducting autopsies (YES/NO) |
Not conducting autopsies (Y/N) |
Reasons for not conducting autopsies |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
NO |
N/A |
Currently serving as a holding facility |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
NO |
N/A |
Currently serving as a holding facility |
|
NO |
N/A |
Training facility |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
|
YES |
N/A |
N/A |
END.
02 April 2024 - NW687
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
Whether certain doctors (details furnished) who have qualified for placement as interns have been placed; if not, (a) what are the specific reasons that each of them has not been placed and (b) on what date will each of the interns be assisted with placement; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
a) As per the details furnished by the member of Parliament, the Department confirms that 16 of the 17 names received to be unallocated were actually allocated and have since commenced duty as indicated by the Persal report extract for the February 2024. The one outstanding applicant is not allocated because he has not met the Registration requirements as set by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
b) The unallocated applicant will be only be assisted during the mid-year cycle on condition that he has met the HPCSA Registration requirements. The table below for individual details of the applicants are avaiable on request.
02 April 2024 - NW707
De Villiers, Mr JN to ask the Minister of Health
Whether he will furnish Mr J N de Villiers with a (a) list and (b) full description of all events planned by his department to take place before 29 May 2024 in celebration of the 30 years of democracy in the Republic, including the (i) projected total cost or expenditure of each event and (ii) breakdown thereof in terms of expenditure for (aa) catering, (bb) entertainment, (cc) venue hire, (dd) transport and (ee) accommodation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
a) The National Department of Health has no list of planned events specifically for celebration of the 30 years of democracy, however the Department will continue to have events planned for administration of government.
b) As indicated in (a) above, there are no planned events specifically for 30 years of democracy in the Republic scheduled to take place before 29 May 2024 and therefore no description can be provided.
c) The questions asked relating to projected total cost or expenditure of each event and breakdown thereof in terms of expenditure for catering, entertainment, venue hire, transport and accommodation are not applicable as there is no cost that can be attached when there are no event planned.
END.
02 April 2024 - NW689
Clarke, Ms M to ask the Minister of Health
(1)How did his department assist the 29 interns placed at military hospital facilities who did not receive their appointment letters in time; (2) whether all 29 interns have (a) been placed and (b) received (i) payment and (ii) accommodation; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. According to the Internship and Community Services Placement (ICSP) programme and confirmation from South African Military Health Services (SAMHS), only five (5) Medical Interns were allocated to military facilities for 2024 and all of these have been appointed and already commenced duty in various Military Hospitals in January 2024.
2. As stated above (a) all 5 medical interns were successfully placed and have commenced duty in January 2024, (b)(i) they all have received payment of their salaries and (ii) where they have required accommodation formally the relevant Military Hospital has provided accommodated accordingly.
END.
22 March 2024 - NW432
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
Whether an assessment of all public hospitals has been undertaken to determine if their equipment and consumable needs will be met within the budget of R848 billion allocated to his department over the Medium-term Expenditure Framework by the Minister of Finance, Mr E Godongwana; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
On 21st February 2024, the Minister of Finance announced 2024 MTEF allocation of R848 billion for the health sector which is inclusive of the following obligations:
- Payment of current employees and the impact of the wage bill agreement
- Provision of the health services in all facilities
- Medical equipment and consumables
- Maintenance and construction of new facilities
The consolidated assessment of equipment and consumables was not undertaken, however, health facilities do develop a demand plan for their equipment and consumables. Upon the budget allocation by the Provincial Treasury, Provincial Departments of health allocates the budgets and develop annual procurement plans.. The total allocated budget over the 2024 MTEF is R15,5 billion for machinery and equipment combined and R7.2 billion for consumables of which are medical supplies and laboratory services. Due to budgetary constraints, it is possible that the equipment and consumables needs will not be met based on the allocated budget.
END.
20 March 2024 - NW623
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
What specific steps has his department taken to regulate the (a) sales and (b) marketing of unhealthy foods and/or products that make a significant contribution to death, especially in the context of inadequate regulation in the countries of the global south?
Reply:
(a) and (b)
The Minister of Health, through the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act (FCD), 1972 (Act. 54 of 1972) regulates foodstuffs with the aim of promoting food safety and to prohibit the misleading advertising of foods. The regulations relating to foodstuffs are aligned to the global best practice of the joint World Health Organisation and Food and Agricultural Organisations’ Codex Alimentarius.
The Department of Health is committed to the improvement of the health and nutrition of South Africans through regulating the labelling of foodstuffs sold in South Africa. This would allow South Africans to make healthy food choices without being misled through inaccurately labelled and advertised foodstuffs thereby assisting consumers to make good nutritional choices and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
In terms of the legislation “it is an offence’ to sell foodstuff that does not bear a label indicating the kinds or grades of ingredients and their proportions or amounts present in a mixed, blended or compounded foodstuff.
The Minister of Health has published the following regulations to help reduce premature death from noncommunicable diseases which is Goal 3.4 of the Sustainable Development Goals:
1. Regulations relating to Trans-Fats in foodstuffs (No.R.127 of 2011), prohibit the sale, manufacture and importation of oils and fats, including continuous phase emulsions, either alone or as part of processed foods. An increased intake of trans fat (>1% of total energy intake) is associated with increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHDs) mortality and relevant events. South Africa is one of the global leaders in protecting the heart health of its citizens through the regulation of Trans Fats.
2. Regulations relating to the reduction of sodium in certain foodstuffs and related matters (No.R.214 of 2013) to help in reducing salt (sodium chloride) intake to less than 5g per day. Excessive salt intake is associated with high blood pressure (hypertension) which is a major risk factor for CVDs. Scientific evidence suggests that reducing sodium intake significantly reduce blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular diseases in adults particularly its contribution towards coronary artery disease and stroke. South Africa is the first country in the world to legislate salt levels to help reduce the amount of salt in processed foods.
3. Regulations relating to foodstuffs for infants and young children (No.R.991 of 2012) aims to protect and promote optimal infant and young child feeding practices and to encourage the safe and appropriate use of commercially processed foods through regulating the labelling, advertising, sale and promotion, and the provision of information and education relating to infant and young child feeding and nutrition.
4. Regulations governing general hygiene requirements for food premises, the transport of food and related matters (No.R.638 of 2018) ensures that all food products are safe for consumption by the public. The regulations apply to all food establishments, including restaurants and hotels, and cover a range of topics including hygiene, food handling, transportation, storage and food preparation. All food establishments that comply with these regulations are issued with the Certificate of Acceptability.
The Minister has also published draft regulations to improve food labelling requirements so that consumers are clear about the contents of food. (No.R.146/2010). These regulations include the following :
(i) a model to classify healthy foods
(ii) specifying criteria for health claims, and,
(iii) a mandatory Front of Pack Label in the form of a easily understood logos, to assist consumers in identifying foods that exceed the threshold of certain “negative” nutrients (added sugar, sodium, and saturated fats) that contribute to the rising obesity and non-communicable disease and death burden in South Africa.
These regulations are implemented at local government level where health inspectors would do inspections to check compliance with regulatory requirements outlined above.
The purpose of regulating the sale and marketing of foods is to inform the consumer of the risk associated to the consumption of particular foods. Evidence from several countries suggests that consumers make healthy food choices when provided with information about the food they consume.
END.
20 March 2024 - NW624
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
In light of the concerning revelations surrounding corporate funding of health research in academic institutions, what collaborative mechanisms does his department have in place with the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation to ensure that there is transparency and integrity in health research funding in the Republic’s institutions of higher learning?
Reply:
The National Department of Health (NDoH) collaborates with the Department of Higher Education, Science and Innovation through the National Health Research Committee (NHRC). NHRC is an NDoH Ministerial Advisory statutory body established in terms of National Health Act of 2003. It responsible for determining the nature, scope, as well as the co-ordination of health research. NHRC is made up of researchers and representative of various academic institutions.
It is a prerequisite that all health research proposals and protocols are reviewed and approved by the health research ethics committee which is registered with the National Health Ethics Council (NHREC) to ensure transparency and integrity of health research. The NHREC is mandated by the Health Act of 2003 to develop guidelines for institutional research ethics committees (IRECs), register and audit IRECs, advise the department of health on all research ethics matters, and adjudicate complains about health research ethics committees.
END.
20 March 2024 - NW622
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
What proactive measures has he put in place to safeguard against undue influence of the tobacco industry on research focusing on the impact of tobacco products on health?
Reply:
The World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) Guidelines for implementation of Article 5.3 recommends that Parties monitor the activities of the tobacco industry. The Convention Secretariat assisted countries with the establishment of tobacco industry observatories in some interested Parties. One of the Observatories is based in South Africa specifically to monitor tobacco industry interference. These observatories inform policy makers and governments on Tobacco industry activities. The South Africa based observatory is called Africa Centre for Tobacco Industry Monitoring and Policy Research (ATIM).
The Department works closely with ATIM- one of their functions is to interrogate research by the industry and they have been able to identify studies and scientist that are funded by the tobacco industry. The Department has access to ATIM findings which have demonstrated how industry has manipulated, suppressed or used data incorrectly to suit the needs of the tobacco industry.
The Department also is also influenced by research and analysis conducted by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), who analyse studies conducted by the Tobacco industry, further citations from other reputable research organisations that are pro-tobacco control and pro-protection of public health are available for use.
The current and proposed laws on tobacco control warrant that the tobacco industry discloses the research conducted by a manufacturer or by a person conducting research paid for in whole or in part by a manufacturer.
END.
20 March 2024 - NW597
De Villiers, Mr JN to ask the Minister of Health
With reference to his reply to question 86 on 22 February 2023, what are the details of the (a) make, (b) model, (c) year of manufacture, (d) date of purchase and (e) purchase price paid for each vehicle purchased by his department for (i) him and (ii) the Deputy Minister since 8 May 2019?
Reply:
Since 1 June 2019 the department only bought one vehicle for the current Minister: Dr. MJ Phaahla, MP, when he was the Deputy Minister as per the table below:
Members of Executive Authority |
(a) Make |
(b) Model |
(c) Year of Manufacture |
(d) Cost |
(e) Purchase date |
i) Minister: Dr MJ Phaahla, MP |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
ii) Former Minister: Dr ZL Mkhize, MP |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
iii) Deputy Minister: Dr S Dhlomo,MP |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
No Procurement was made |
iv) Former Deputy Minister: Dr MJ Phaahla |
Audi |
Q5 |
2020 |
R 756,489.83 |
10/5/2020 |
END.
20 March 2024 - NW540
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health
What (a) are the reasons that (i) the staff at the Swellendam Hospital have not been paid their much-needed salaries and (ii) the specified staff have to wait until the next financial year in order to be remunerated and (b) urgent steps of intervention have been taken to resolve the problem?
Reply:
(a) (i), (ii) and (b)
The official report form Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is that they do not have any records, nor reports of staff from Swellendam hospital not receiving their remuneration. Also, contractors of Swellendam hospital have also reported that they are not aware of any of such claims emanating from themselves nor their employees. However, it will be appreciated if the honourable member could provide any further specific details regarding any person who has not been paid as it is pointed out in the question.
END.
14 March 2024 - NW471
Mkhaliphi, Ms HO to ask the Minister of Health
(1)What total number of persons have been admitted to (a) the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital, (b) the King Edward VIII Hospital, (c) the Addington Hospital and (d) surrounding hospitals in eThekwini as a result of contaminated water; (2) what is the breakdown of the total number of (a) children and (b) elderly persons admitted as a result of contaminated water?
Reply:
1. According to the KZN Department of Health, the responses are as follows:
(a) There were no persons admitted at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital due to contaminated water
(b) There were no persons admitted at King Edward VIII Hospital due to contaminated water.
(c) There were no persons admitted at Addington Hospital due to contaminated water.
(d) There were no persons admitted at surrounding hospitals in eThekwini due to contaminated water.
(2) According to the KZN Department of Health, there were (a) no children and (b) no elderly persons admitted as a result of contaminated water.
END.
14 March 2024 - NW493
Komane, Ms RN to ask the Minister of Health
(1)Whether the Hospital and Emergency Centre Tracking Information System (HECTIS) that has been introduced by his department, is now available in all hospitals; if not, (2) whether HECTIS is still piloted at certain hospitals; if not, why not; if so, (a) which hospitals have used the HECTIS system and (b) what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. No, the Hospital and Emergency Centre Tracking Information System (HECTIS) is not available in all hospitals. The system has only been implemented by the Western Cape Provincial Department of Health. It has not been implemented in any other province as it is not part of the national Emergency Medical Services Plan.
2. (a) HECTIS is not in a pilot phase. It has been successfully integrated into a total of 64 health facilities in the Western Cape in both hospitals and Primary Healthcare facilities (see annexure showing HECTIS Sites List).
(b) HECTIS is a web-based hospital and emergency centre tracking information system. The system was developed as an in-house custom-built system by an emergency physician from Mitchells Plain Hospital in the Western Cape for their internal processes. It is a Clinician driven innovative healthcare technology initiative, focused on improving the management and efficiency of Emergency Centres.
END.
14 March 2024 - NW489
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health
What (a) are the reasons that the Health Professions Council of South Africa demands that practitioners who are unemployed should pay their outstanding annual fees by 31 March 2024 and (b) interventions can his department make in this regard?
Reply:
According to the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA):
(a) It is a legal requirement that all practising health professionals register with their Professional Council namely the HPCSA, South African Nursing Council, South African Pharmacy Council, Dental Technicians Council and the Allied Health Professions Council. The Health Professions Act, 1974 (Act No. 56 of 1974) requires health professionals to register with the HPCSA before practicing. As section 17 of the Health Professions Act, 1974 (Act No. 56 of 1974) states the following:
If the registrar is satisfied that the qualifications and the other documents submitted in support of the application satisfy the requirements of this Act, he or she shall, upon payment by the applicant of the prescribed registration fee, issue a registration certificate authorising the applicant, subject to the provisions of this Act or of any other law, to practise the health profession in respect whereof he or she has applied for registration, within the Republic.
The HPCSA legislation does not require that unemployed practitioners (non-practising) to pay registration fees. Infact a person not practising a health profession registrable with the HPCSA may apply for voluntary erasure from the register in writing before 31 March of the year that he/she wishes to be voluntarily erased in line with section 19 (1) (c) of the Act.
When the health professional decides to resume practice then a restoration fee is payable and the person could be restored to the register. There may be additional requirements such as continuous professional development, depending on the number of years the health professional is unregistered with the Council.
(b) There is no need for an intervention since there is no obligation on a non-practising health practitioner to registered with the HPCSA.
END.
08 March 2024 - NW400
Thembekwayo, Dr S to ask the Minister of Health
Whether he has any intervention mechanisms in place to address and/or mitigate challenges of poor service experienced by patients at public hospitals and clinics across the Republic; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
There are many testimonies from South Africans of excellent service received at both PHC facilities and hospitals, however there are pockets of incidents where our patients experience poor service delivery. The NDoH however takes every specific incident of poor service received seriously, and endeavour to provide redress and reduce such incidents in the future.
The Department is implementing various quality improvement interventions to ensure the provision of quality health care at health facilities which include the following:
- Ideal facility monitoring system which provides a platform for all health facilities to track the facility self-assessment progress, quality improvement interventions and the remedial actions taken to ensure compliance with standards.
- Implementation of Quality learning centres which is a cluster of facilities in a geographic area made up of hospitals, primary health care and private hospitals to facilitate an integrated approach to quality improvement through mentorship.
- Clinical Governance structures that are responsible and accountable for continuous improvement of the quality of care rendered at facilities and ensures best clinical outcomes for patient care.
- Patient waiting times are monitored and provinces support facilities to improve on waiting times.
- Patient safety incidence committees where adverse events are reported and analysed, and quality improvement plans are implemented.
- The National Department of Health has instituted a formal system of obtaining feedback on patients’ experience of care that they receive in public health establishments, through the patient experience of care surveys. Reports from these surveys guide continuous quality improvement of care.
- Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) which monitor and enforce compliance by health establishments with norms and standards prescribed by the Minister of Health.
END.
08 March 2024 - NW431
Hlengwa, Ms MD to ask the Minister of Health
With regard to the R848 billion allocated to his department over the Medium-term Expenditure Framework by the Minister of Finance, Mr E Godongwana, what total number of (a) doctors and (b) nurses will be employed?
Reply:
The allocated budget of R848 billion for the Health sector is inclusive of the following obligations:
- Payment of current employees and the impact of wage bill agreement
- Provision of the health services in all facilities
- Medical equipment
- Maintenance and construction of new facilities
Included in the above budget is an additional budget of R3.7 billion has been allocated towards compensation of employees in the sector for the financial year 2024/25 to address the wage bill increase and recruitment of additional staff including nurses and medical doctors.
The department has been in constant communication with the representatives of and individual unemployed doctors since beginning of the year. Whilst interacting with the different lists submitted and comparing them with the Persal system, the following conclusion was deduced:
- 417 duplications from grand total of 1415
- 13 applicants still to complete their Community Service
- 2 registered as Internship
- 6 interested in Specialist Posts
- 860 completed Community Service in December 2023
a) Provincial Departments of Health have already advertised 823 since December 2023 and have reported projections of 1103 Medical Officer appointments by 1st April 2024.
b) Consolidation of funded posts for Nurses will be confirmed by the 15th March 2024.
END.
08 March 2024 - NW417
Hicklin, Ms MB to ask the Minister of Health
What are the details of the medico-legal insurance that peri-operative nursing staff in training enjoy (a) during the completion of all the various stages of their training and (b) after they complete their training?
Reply:
a) All nurses whether undergraduate or post graduate students or qualified, are enjoy vicarious liability cover by working in public health establishments. Vicarious liability is a legal principle that holds employers responsible for the wrongful actions of their employees. This implies that when the employee commits a wrongful act whils acting withn the course of and scope of their employment, the employer can be held liable for damages caused by the employee. The nursing staff in training who performs duties for the state are therefore employees and they are not personally liable for any wrongful act committed whilst so employed as part of their training. The deciding factor is whether or not the individual acted in course of and within the scope of their employment.
b) While indemnity cover is not required as a pre-requisite for employment, nurses are advised to take indemnity cover to protect them in the event they are sued in their personal capacity. This can be obtained by way of associations, union and or private.
END.
08 March 2024 - NW302
Graham-Maré, Ms SJ to ask the Minister of Health
(1)With regard to the emergency generators received from China, what is the full breakdown of the total number of generators that were allocated to (a) his department as a whole and (b) the provincial departments; (2) (a) how were these generators transported to their final destinations and (b) what (i) are the full details of the service providers who transported the generators and (ii) is the total cost of transporting these generators; (3) whether his department is responsible for the provision and procurement of diesel for the generators; if not, what is the position in this regard; if so, what are the relevant details, including the cost of the diesel used to date; (4) how many of the generators that reached their destination are (a) installed and functional and (b) yet to be installed?
Reply:
1. (a) The National Department of Health has received 306 generators.
(b) 34 generators per province. In order to meet the minimum demand for each clinic, it’s going to be two generators per clinic. 6KW x 2 = 12KW. Therefore, it’s going to be 19 clinics earmarked for the generators.
2. (a) The National Department of Health is currently finalising the procurement process. The procurement process covers both the collection and installation of the generators directly to the main electrical distribution board of the clinics.
(b) (i) The details of the Service Providers will be provided after the completion of the procurement process.
(ii) the total cost will also be provided after the completion of the procurement process.
3. The National Department of Health will ensure that there is enough budget allocation for the fuel consumption of generators across the country. Currently, there is no fuel expenditure on these new generators.
4. (a) None installed yet.
(b) 306 to be installed.
END.
08 March 2024 - NW367
Tito, Ms LF to ask the Minister of Health
In each province, what is the total number of (a) public clinics and (b) public healthcare facilities that (i) have permanent (aa) pharmacists and (bb) pharmacist assistants and (ii) do not have permanent pharmacists and pharmacist assistants and have to rely on general nurses to dispense medicine?
Reply:
(a) (b) (i) (aa) (bb) (ii)
The table below shows public facilities with permanent pharmacists, permanent pharmacist assistants and those facilities without pharmacists and Pharmacists assistants
Province |
Public Clinics (a) |
Public Facilities (Clinics & hospitals) |
Public Facilities with Permanent Pharmacists(b) (i) (aa) |
Public Facilities with Permanent Pharmacists Assistants(b) (i) (bb) |
Public Clinics without permanent Pharmacist &Pharmacist Assistants (ii) |
Eastern Cape |
777 |
867 |
139 |
236 |
490 |
Free State |
219 |
251 |
43 |
170 |
38 |
Gauteng |
373 |
409 |
67 |
210 |
132 |
KwaZulu-Natal |
608 |
678 |
93 |
412 |
173 |
Limpopo |
477 |
518 |
78 |
89 |
351 |
Mpumalanga |
295 |
327 |
75 |
159 |
93 |
Northern Cape |
161 |
176 |
47 |
85 |
44 |
North West |
309 |
330 |
49 |
60 |
248 |
Western Cape |
255 |
307 |
123 |
94 |
90 |
Total |
3474 |
3863 |
714 |
1515 |
1659 |
Facilities without pharmacists and pharmacists assistants are supported by district pharmacists for monitoring availability of medication while nurses with dispensing course are dispensing their own prescriptions. Nurses without dispensing course are given authorisation to dispense medication in accordance with the Primary Health Care Standard Treatment Guideline and Essential Medicine List as per section 56(6), 33 of 2005. of Nursing Act .
END.
08 March 2024 - NW393
Shaik Emam, Mr AM to ask the Minister of Health
(1)What measures is his department putting in place to accommodate the more than 1 000 medical graduates who have completed their community service and remain unemployed; (2) whether his department has succeeded in acquiring additional funding from the National Treasury as previously alluded to by him, in order to accommodate the specified graduates; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. The Provincial Departments of Health had already advertised 823 since December 2023 and have reported projections of 1103 Medical Officer appointments by 1st April 2024. In monitoring the progress and supporting the provinces, regular discussions are held between the National Department of Health and Provinces.
2. Additional budget of R3.7 billion has been allocated towards compensation of employees in the health sector for the financial year 2024/25 to address the wage bill increase and recruitment of additional staff including nurses and medical doctors.
END.