WATCH: 'They treat us like cockroaches' - Patient highlights Helen Joseph horrors
Keely Goodall
9 September 2024 | 11:41A video is going viral, highlighting horrendous conditions at Helen Joseph Hospital.
Bongani Bingwa speaks with Motaletale Modiba, Chief Director of Communications at the Department of Health in Gauteng.
Listen below.
Veteran broadcaster Tom London posted a video he shot while being treated at Helen Joseph Hospital, outlining the horrific conditions.
In addition to broken taps, blown plugs and flaking ceilings, London says the doctors treat patients 'like cockroaches'.
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He is busy undergoing cancer tests and has not been spoken to by a doctor for more than 48 hours, saying doctors treat the patients with absolute disdain.
In the video, he explains that the man in the bed across from him had been dead for 20 minutes, but nothing has been done.
“I have never seen such a level of disrespect for human beings in my life.”
- Tom London, Patient - Helen Joseph Hospital
“If this is what the NHI is, make sure it does not happen.”
- Tom London, Patient - Helen Joseph Hospital
London later moved to the Morningside clinic after receiving numerous donations from people who watched the first video.
Modiba says it is disheartening that this is the experience of patients, and the department is investigating the situation.
“You cannot excuse the staff attitudes.”
- Motaletale Modiba, Department of Health - Gauteng
He adds that they are rolling out a program to improve bedside manner at the hospital, and to ask patients to raise concerns if they have a bad experience.
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.
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