Health Ombudsman
On Tuesday, the Health Ombud, Professor Taole Mokoena, released the findings of the investigation into the allegations of a patient denied provision of care at the Motherwell NU 11 Clinic in the Eastern Cape. The investigation was initiated after the clinic was accused of denying healthcare to 15-year-old Zenizole Vena, who later died after being turned away.
The complaint alleged that Vena, accompanied by an elderly woman, sought healthcare at the clinic after being sexually assaulted. However, she was denied care and later died at the Motherwell Police Station Community Service Centre, where she had sought assistance. The investigation confirmed that Vena was turned away by healthcare workers at the clinic, and it also revealed failures at the Motherwell Police Station Community Service Centre to assist her upon arrival.
The investigation, which included interviews with witnesses and analysis of documentary evidence, substantiated the allegation that Vena was denied provision of care at the Motherwell NU 11 Clinic. It also brought to light the failure of the Motherwell Police Station Community Service Centre to promptly assist Vena upon her arrival.
Professor Mokoena expressed his concern over the lack of basic human instinct to assist a person in distress, particularly a child, within the South African Police Service at Motherwell Police Station. The findings of the investigation highlighted the urgency of addressing the shortcomings in the care and support provided to individuals in vulnerable situations.
Health Minister Joe Phaahla stated that it is unacceptable for someone to be denied healthcare. Recommendations resulting from the investigation included the initiation of a disciplinary inquiry against various personnel, provision of mentoring to healthcare workers, installation of a Service/Notice Board at the Motherwell Clinic, and the development of a Standard Operating Procedure for the management of sexual assault cases, among others. The report with findings and recommendations was handed over to the Health Minister for further analysis.
The release of the findings and recommendations by the Health Ombud serves as an important step in ensuring accountability and improving the provision of healthcare services. It is a reminder of the significance of upholding the right to healthcare for all individuals, especially those in vulnerable situations. The findings also call for urgent interventions to address the systemic failures that led to the tragic outcome for Zenizole Vena.
The full report with findings and recommendations can be accessed on the Office of the Health Ombud website at www.healthombud.org.za.
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