WC Health department responds to claims woman died outside Bishop Lavis health centre

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has responded to claims by the Bishop Lavis Action Community that a woman died outside a local health centre after being refused entry.  

The group held a silent picket outside the centre on Tuesday, with black tape over their mouths.  

ALSO READ: Activists pin death of asthma patient on Bishop Lavis Community Day Centre

They alleged 49-year-old asthma patient Sylvia Abrahams was denied entry last month and told the 24-hour maternity ward did not have oxygen.  

However, department spokesperson Megan Davids said the ward was only equipped to deal with maternity cases.  

“While the Bishop Lavis CDC midwife obstetric unit operates 24 hours a day, it provides specialised care for pregnant women only and is not equipped to manage general medical or trauma emergencies. Patients requiring care for these emergencies should seek assistance at an appropriate emergency facility such as Elsies River CHC,” Davids said.

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