Calls for WC public health funding to be increased

CAPE TOWN – Cosatu in the Western Cape has called on the provincial government to allocate funds to enhance the efficiency of the public healthcare sector.

This comes in response to broadcaster Tom London’s viral social media post where he slammed staff at the Helen Joseph Hospital over the alleged neglect of patients, poor bedside manners by doctors and the facility’s deplorable state.

WATCH: SA’s health emergency | Helen Joseph staff accused of negligence, insensitivity

 

Patients have also shared their experiences while visiting state health facilities, with most complaining about the lengthy waiting times.

Provincial leaders stress that around 36 percent of the Western Cape’s budget is dedicated to public healthcare, but adds that a national conversation on how healthcare is funded is needed.

• eNCA reporter Kevin Brandt has more.