Gauteng Health Department takes measures to improve patient safety at facilities

JOHANNESBURG - The Gauteng Health Department is taking measures to improve patient safety at its medical facilities.

Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has outlined measures to reduce serious adverse events at the province's hospitals.

Responding to questions at the provincial legislature, the MEC said quality assurance officials have undergone specialised training to prevent and report incidents at medical facilities.

Last year, the department recorded more than 7,000 incidents across the various hospitals in the province.

"These incidents are categorised into various types including clinical administration, healthcare- associated infections, medication or intravenous fluids and patient accidents - to mention a few. Although the stats represent a more stable environment the department continues to work towards the reduction of patient safety incidents."