MEC to pay surprise visit to Emmaus and Escourt hospitals

6 May 2010

Today, the MEC for Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, will pay a surprise visit to two midlands hospitals (Emmaus and Escourt) as part of his stated commitment to go around the province to see to the delivery of quality healthcare.

Since being appointed to the Health portfolio, in May 2009, he has become known for his hands on approach. One of his initiatives was to start a project called ‘Make Me Look Like A Hospital’ which aims to improve the quality of healthcare delivery and improving the way hospitals look. The tenets of this project include: cleanliness, staff attitudes, safety and security, accessibility, reduced waiting times and infection control.

During the budget speech of 2010/11 he announced that the attainment of our goals can be made possible "if managers actively manage their hospitals through a process of management, walking about, listening to patients and eliminating bottlenecks. Patients expect quality care despite the constraints and challenges that we might face".

For interviews please contact:
Desmond Motha
Cell: 083 295 3901

Chris Maxon
Cell: 083 285 0567

Pictures will be made available on request.

Issued by: Department of Health, KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government
6 May 2010