One of Johannesburg’s oldest hospitals, Helen Joseph, is facing a multitude of challenges that are putting the quality of healthcare at risk. The hospital’s disarray has been highlighted in two reports released by the Health Ombud and the Office of Health Standard Compliance (OHSC) during a media briefing on 10 March.
The reports were prompted by a viral Facebook Live video by former broadcaster Thomas Holmes, also known as Tom London. In the video, London complained about disrespectful hospital staff, lack of urgency and courtesy from doctors, and the deteriorating infrastructure at Helen Joseph Hospital.
Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, who initiated the investigation, emphasized the importance of knowing what is happening in healthcare institutions to ensure quality care for patients.
Helen Joseph Academic Hospital, affiliated with Wits University’s medical school, provides specialized clinical services to a catchment population of over 1.5 million people. However, the reports revealed several concerning issues plaguing the hospital.
The Investigation Findings
The investigation, conducted between September and November last year, found that seven of London’s 10 complaints were unsubstantiated. Here is a breakdown of some key complaints and findings:
- Complaint: Doctors disrespecting patients.
- Finding: Patients interviewed by investigators were satisfied with the care provided by doctors.
- Complaint: Delay in medical care and canceled CT scan.
- Finding: The necessary CT scan was conducted on the same day.
- Complaint: Delay in seeing a doctor.
- Finding: London was seen and examined multiple times during his stay.
- Complaint: Poor clinical care.
- Finding: London expressed satisfaction with the clinical care received.
- Complaint: Delay in removing deceased patient.
- Finding: The body was removed within hours of the patient’s passing.
The OHSC report highlighted critical infrastructure issues at the hospital, including decaying infrastructure, broken facilities, and lack of maintenance. Dr. Siphiwe Mndaweni, CEO of OHSC, noted serious contraventions of safety regulations and the need for immediate attention to improve the hospital’s conditions.
According to the report, the hospital’s infrastructure was in poor condition, with broken toilets, malfunctioning electrical plugs, and leaking water pipes posing safety risks to patients and staff. Additionally, the human resources department was described as dysfunctional, lacking policies and standard operating procedures.
Leadership instability was also a significant concern, with frequent changes in CEOs and senior management roles. This lack of stability has contributed to poor governance and a lack of clear responsibilities within the hospital.
Overall, the investigations revealed a range of systemic issues at Helen Joseph Hospital that require urgent attention to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services to the community it serves.
Service providers are facing challenges in delivering food items to a hospital as they have not been paid their previous invoices. This has led to a shortage of essential supplies and a disruption in the hospital’s operations. Additionally, only 36 out of 166 cameras were functioning, leaving the hospital vulnerable to vandalism and theft of infrastructure.
The hospital is also struggling with overcrowding in the emergency department, a lack of admission beds, and the unavailability of porter services. These issues are putting a strain on the hospital staff and impacting the quality of care provided to patients.
In response to these findings, recommendations have been made to address the shortcomings in the hospital’s management and infrastructure. It is suggested that the Gauteng health department prioritize the employment of leadership and fill vacancies to meet the requirements of a tertiary hospital. Additionally, all potential candidates for the CEO post should undergo reference checks and vetting before being appointed, and all funded vacant posts should be advertised and filled within three months.
Furthermore, an independent forensic audit firm should be appointed within two months to investigate any irregularities. Other recommendations include refurbishing the hospital within six months, appointing a resident artisan within one month, and addressing governance matters by developing written policies.
The response from the Health Department acknowledges the management gaps, particularly in infrastructure and human resources. It is highlighted that the lack of delegation is a significant issue, and there is a need for autonomy in managing hospitals, especially academic institutions. The CEO and the board should have the authority to make decisions, including procurement, without having to consult external agencies.
The Health Department emphasizes the importance of delegation within the government and the need for hospitals to have the power to address issues independently. The report serves as an eye-opener and highlights the importance of external investigations to uncover the truth and address shortcomings effectively.
Overall, the findings and recommendations presented in the report shed light on the challenges faced by the hospital and the steps needed to improve its operations and ensure quality patient care. It is essential for the Health Department to take action and implement the recommendations to address the issues identified and enhance the hospital’s efficiency and effectiveness.
