OPINION | From commitments to care – Gauteng Health at work
Patient experience of care improved from 85% to 86%, writes Faith Mazibuko.
Government services matter most when they are felt by the people they are meant to serve. This lesson has been reinforced through Gauteng Health's Siyabaphilisa Outreach Programs, which bring healthcare services directly to communities. The 2025/26 Annual Report offers a detailed account of this work, showcasing the department's progress in translating its commitments into tangible actions.
One of these commitments involves building a skilled and responsive health workforce. The number of students enrolled for emergency medical care increased from 79 in 2024/25 to 117 in 2025/26, exceeding the annual target of 90. This demonstrates a strong investment in future emergency responders. Other commitments include improving patient experience and accessibility.
Patient satisfaction rose from 85% to 86%, while Ideal Clinic performance increased from 92% to 94.4%. Additionally, 40 facilities maintain 24-hour emergency services, ensuring timely care for residents. To modernize the healthcare system, 15 hospitals digitized paper-based patient records, and three hospitals implemented integrated health information systems.
These technological advancements aim to provide health workers with better access to information and enhance system responsiveness. The cancer treatment backlog was significantly reduced, with 1,076 patients completing radiation oncology treatment, and the backlog dropping below 150 patients. This success is attributed to additional resources and partnerships with the private sector.
The Department completed all seven capital infrastructure projects planned for 2025/26, including refurbishments at major hospitals like Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital. These investments strengthen the capacity of healthcare facilities. While the Annual Report does not claim completion of all work, it serves as a testament to the progress made in addressing healthcare needs.
The Siyabaphilisa outreach programs have highlighted gaps in access, such as children missing vaccinations and dental care, underscoring the importance of ensuring services reach those in need. With rotavirus cases surging, the department emphasizes the critical role of vaccination in protecting children. Overall, the report underscores the department's commitment to improving hospital and clinic services while expanding access to quality healthcare, ultimately ensuring residents can access the care they need.
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
