By Becker Semela:
The ongoing crisis at the National District Hospital in Bloemfontein has deepened following the closure of its Maternity Ward. The Department of Labour and Employment issued a Prohibition Notice after determining that the ward’s extremely low temperatures posed a serious risk to both patients and staff.
According to the provincial health department, the affected ward, which has 21 beds, primarily served women with low-risk pregnancies. Due to the unsafe conditions, it was closed immediately.
Provincial health department spokesperson Mondli Mvambi confirmed that temporary measures have been put in place to ensure that pregnant women continue to receive care. Low-risk maternity cases are now being referred to the MUCPP Clinic, while high-risk pregnancies are directed to Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital for immediate medical attention.
“We are treating this matter as urgent. Our Infrastructure Unit is working around the clock to address the issue and ensure that the ward is once again safe and warm for mothers and babies,” said Mvambi.
The closure has sparked concern among community members, particularly expectant mothers who rely on the National District Hospital for check-ups and deliveries. The health department has moved to reassure the public that no patient will be left without medical care.
“The safety of mothers and their newborns is our top priority. We cannot allow any facility to operate if it fails to meet required health and safety standards,” Mvambi stated.
An investigation has been launched into the cause of the temperature issue, and the department is developing preventative measures to avoid similar situations in the future. Hospital staff have been briefed on the diversion procedures and are working closely with emergency medical services to ensure patients are safely transferred to the appropriate facilities.
This latest development adds further strain to an already struggling hospital. A section of the National District Hospital has remained closed since a fire broke out last year, and repairs are still ongoing. The combined effect of infrastructure failures and safety concerns has placed significant pressure on healthcare services in Bloemfontein.
Mvambi appealed to the public to remain patient as the department works to restore services. He also promised regular updates on the progress being made to reopen the maternity ward.
“This situation underscores the critical importance of maintaining reliable infrastructure in public health facilities – especially those serving vulnerable groups like pregnant women and newborns,” he added. – @NewsSA_Online
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