Health Dept says no decline in patients at facilities amid Operation Dudula demonstrations

JOHANNESBURG - The Health Department says it has not recorded a decline in patient numbers at health facilities, as Operation Dudula continues with various demonstrations.

In recent weeks, clinics in Johannesburg and parts of Durban have been targeted, with the group denying access to undocumented foreign nationals.

Patients queuing outside facilities have been illegally asked to produce identification before being allowed in.

Operation Dudula insists this has resulted in a reduction in congestion at clinics and hospitals.

Dozens of clinics have been the scene of demonstrations by Operation Dudula, backed by some political parties and frustrated residents.

Since the start of the action, videos have been shared on social media, with claims of a significant drop in patient numbers.

Some individuals, claiming to be healthcare workers, have commented on the videos, saying they’ve felt some relief in workload.

But the health department insists no such trend has been officially recorded, describing the acts as unconstitutional.

Spokesperson Foster Mohale said “We don’t have that data because our responsibility, our focus is to provide healthcare services. Whether the numbers go up or down, we are not aware, and even if we were aware, we would not worry.”

The department said the South African constitution guarantees everyone, regardless of nationality, the right to access emergency and basic healthcare.

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