- The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is prioritising patient health and safety during the cold season by encouraging the use of appointment systems to reduce long waits.
- Patients are advised to arrive only 30 minutes before their appointments and to avoid early queueing in the cold.
- Communication channels are available for patients to provide feedback and report any concerns about their experiences at local health facilities.
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness aims to prioritise the health and safety of all patients during the cold season.
With winter upon us, many people are navigating healthcare facility visits amid cold and wet conditions.
Healthcare facilities across the province have put in place systems to cut down longer waiting times and request patients to only arrive 30 minutes before their appointments.
Healthcare facilities such as Dr Abdurahman CDC, Hanover Park CHC, Heideveld CDC, and Mitchells Plain CHC are encouraging patients to not queue from 05:00. They are also discouraging patients from standing in the cold, risking their safety and health.
Appointment system
Monique Johnstone, communication officer for Western Cape Government Health and Wellness, encourages residents to make use of the appointment system and to reach out to local facility managers if they have any concerns.
“As we navigate the challenges of winter, it’s important that we prioritise the safety and well-being of all people visiting our health facilities, especially our elderly and other vulnerable groups. We ask that you only arrive 30 minutes before your appointment to reduce your waiting time. We also encourage residents to visit the facility when it is open to ensure their safety. If you are unhappy with your experience at our local clinics, please do let us know by using the correct channels, such as your facility manager, the facility suggestion box, your health committee or reaching out to the provincial client support centre to share your concerns,” she says.
Tips
1. Avoid queues: Reduce early queueing in cold and wet conditions by making use of the appointment system. By scheduling your visit, you can ensure a smoother experience upon arrival.
2. Arrive on time: If you cannot attend your appointment and need to reschedule, please reach out to your clinic to set a new date.
3. Safety first: Your safety is important to us. Queueing in the dark poses a security risk, and we encourage visitors to arrive at the facility at least 30 minutes before their appointment, whenever possible.
4. Speak and be heard: Your feedback matters. Provide suggestions on how we can improve services. Provide feedback to facility managers through the following channels:
- SMS: Send the word “Help” followed by your name, the nature of your suggestion or complaint, facility, and, if applicable, the name of a staff member to 31022.
- Call: Dial 0860 142 142 and press “1” to speak with a representative.
- Please Call Me: Reach out via 079 769 1207, and we’ll promptly assist you.
- Email: Send your concerns to service@westerncape.gov.za, and we’ll address them with care and urgency.
- Share anonymous feedback: Share your concerns by adding your name or remaining anonymous. Simply add your feedback to your facility’s suggestion or complaints box.
Emergency care
You can access emergency care at your local clinic. Remember, we follow the triage system. This means that when you enter a facility, they are assessed and triaged to ensure that they are seen according to the degree of urgency their condition requires.
Patients are triaged green, yellow, orange or red, with red representing the most urgent cases.
If you are triaged yellow and green and you do not require a life-saving intervention, this could mean that you will have a much longer waiting time if visiting a facility’s emergency centre, especially when it is very busy over weekends and after hours.
Find your closest clinic by visiting the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness website: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/directories/facilities/944
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