The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has launched investigations into allegations that some patients are paying officials to bypass queues and gain quicker access to services at public hospitals and clinics.
The department said it had received complaints from members of the public alleging that officials were accepting money in exchange for scheduling appointments, retrieving patient files and facilitating faster collection of medication.
The department described the allegations as serious and warned that any officials found to be involved in corrupt activities could face legal consequences.
“The allegations are serious, and the Department will investigate credible complaints involving officials who are alleged to have solicited or accepted bribes from patients,” the department said.
The GDoH stressed that no patient should be required to pay for services to which they are entitled and condemned any form of bribery, corruption or preferential treatment within the public healthcare system.
“Patients must access services through established processes, and no person should be allowed to use money to gain advantage of accessing services,” the department said.
The department reminded healthcare workers that accepting money or any other benefit in exchange for performing their duties, expediting services or giving preferential treatment could amount to corruption under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act.
“Officials are reminded that accepting money or any other benefit in exchange for performing, expediting or giving preferential treatment in the execution of their duties is a serious offence,” it said.
Health authorities have urged patients who are approached for bribes to report incidents immediately, preferably while still at the healthcare facility. Complaints can be lodged with the Office of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or the Quality Assurance Office to enable immediate intervention and investigation.
The department said public cooperation was critical in rooting out corruption and protecting the integrity of the healthcare system.
“We encourage members of the public not to remain silent when confronted with corruption. Reporting these incidents will assist the Department in protecting patients, strengthening accountability and ensuring that public healthcare services are provided fairly and without discrimination,”department said.
Reiterating its zero-tolerance stance, the department declared that “public healthcare services are not for sale” and warned that corruption would not be tolerated in Gauteng’s healthcare facilities.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za
