'If this is what NHI looks like, do NOT let it happen!' – Tom London
Tom London’s viral video highlights the reality of the public healthcare system in South Africa.
FILE: Tom London highlights the horrors of Helen Joseph hospital. Picture: X screenshot
Clarence Ford speaks with Barbara Friedman about this and other stories trending online.
Listen below.
"If this is what NHI looks like, do not let it happen," was the call from broadcaster Tom London in a now-viral video.
London had a horrific experience at Helen Joseph Hospital, something many South Africans can relate to.
ALSO READ:
WATCH: 'They treat us like cockroaches' - Patient highlights Helen Joseph horrors
‘This is not just my story. It’s every patient at Helen Joseph' - Tom London
In his viral video, he speaks about the awful way doctors treat patients at the hospital.
He eventually moved to a private facility thanks to donations from viewers.
London was admitted to Helen Joseph after being unable to breathe due to water in his lungs.
He said that, while he was in the hospital, another patient in the bed next to him was screaming in pain during a procedure. The doctors did not console him, instead, they ignored his suffering, talking about their bonuses and cars.
“He was screaming like a wild animal.”
- Tom London
London says that in the casualty ward, where he stayed for three days, there was only one toilet.
He was given medication that upset his stomach and soiled his pants while queuing.
He then had to remain in the soiled pants for ages before he was moved.
“I hope for once this makes some sort of change.”
– Barbara Friedman
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.