In-depth: Millions spent on security at Gauteng health facilities but concerns remain

Posted in: Gauteng, Latest, Provinces

The Gauteng Department of Health annually spends millions on security at its health facilities based on contracts that expired in 2016 and that since have been extended from month to month. Yet, theft, vandalism, and reports of healthcare workers who work in fear at some health facilities continue. Despite this, the department insists that spending on security is not wasteful and “the business case for security remains robust”. Thabo Molelekwa and Alicestine October reports.

In-depth: Millions spent on security at Gauteng health facilities but concerns remain

Northern Cape government yet to decide on fate of senior health officials facing fraud charges

Posted in: COVID-19, Healthcare system, Latest, Northern Cape, Provinces

The Northern Cape provincial government is still deciding whether or not to act against two of the province’s top health officials who this week appeared in court on charges of fraud and corruption. Opposition parties and trade unions are calling for the officials to be suspended.

Northern Cape government yet to decide on fate of senior health officials facing fraud charges

Interview: Acting Free State Health head on his plans for the department

Posted in: COVID-19, Free State, Latest, Provinces

On 20 May Free State Premier Sisi Ntombela announced that Godfrey Mahlatsi will replace then head of the province’s health department Dr David Motau in an acting capacity. Refilwe Mochoari asked Mahlatsi about his plans for a department that has seen its fair share of controversy over the years.

Interview: Acting Free State Health head on his plans for the department

In-depth: This is how health departments (mis)spend public funds

Posted in: Latest

The recently released audit outcomes for the 2019/2020 financial year paints a grim picture of wastage and mismanagement of public funds in provincial health departments. Spotlight Deputy Editor Alicestine October unpacks and examines the Auditor General’s findings.

In-depth: This is how health departments (mis)spend public funds

Opinion: What PPE graft means for NHI

Posted in: Latest, NHI

Even as the need for a more equitable health system is being demonstrated, news has broken of large-scale corruption in the procurement of PPE. This makes it difficult for a population worn down by corruption to envisage the transformation of the health system into a system of contracting and procurement under National Health Insurance, writes Sasha Stevenson.

Wastage and negligence hamstrung health services

Posted in: Latest

The Auditor-General (AG) this week once again in his audit report on national and provincial departments painted a bleak picture of wastage and brazen negligence in the public sector. Mismanaged funds in health departments are of particular concern.