The Limpopo Department of Health has made a U-turn on its decision to reopen Chuene Clinic in Ga-Chuene outside Polokwane. The clinic had been closed for four days following a horrific attack on nurses, where a man held three unarmed security guards at gunpoint and abducted two nurses. The nurses were taken to a bush outside the clinic, where they were robbed and raped before the assailant fled on foot.
Initially, the department announced that the clinic would resume services on a limited basis, only operating during the day from Monday to Friday. However, after pressure from health workers, the decision was reversed, and the facility is now closed indefinitely. The closure comes after a thorough reassessment of the impact of the attack on the nursing staff and the surrounding community.
Nurses and allied health workers have welcomed the second closure of Chuene Clinic, citing ongoing trauma and fear among staff members. The Democratic Nursing Organisation (DENOSA) and the National Education Health and Allied Workers Union (NEHAWU) have demanded armed security guards at the clinic before services can resume. Both organizations emphasize the importance of ensuring the safety of workers and facilities before operating a 24-hour clinic.
The Department of Health has committed to improving security measures at all health facilities to protect healthcare workers from harm. They will work closely with law enforcement and community leaders to enhance security at Chuene Clinic before reopening it. In the meantime, community members are advised to seek healthcare services at nearby facilities until the situation at Chuene Clinic is resolved.
The armed assailant responsible for the attack is still at large, adding to the ongoing fear and uncertainty among healthcare workers and the community. The closure of Chuene Clinic underscores the urgent need for improved security measures to protect healthcare workers and ensure the safe operation of essential healthcare facilities.
