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The DA in Limpopo has written to Limpopo Health MEC, Phophi Ramathuba, to urgently address the lack of Betadine at Philadelphia Hospital as well as other pressing issues raised by hospital staff.

The hospital has not had Betadine solution for more than six weeks according to complaints from hospital staff. The solution is vital in cleaning wounds before and after operations. Due to the lack of the solution medical staff are forced to use 70% alcohol, which is not the desired alternative.

Other challenges raised include the failure to maintain and repair important medical equipment such as the anesthetic machine and the blood gas machine that are currently dysfunctional. The alleged prolonged stints of absenteeism of the CEO from the hospital were also raised.

Just two weeks ago the DA carried out an oversight inspection at Philadelphia Hospital after receiving complaints from hospital staff that the generator had not been working for a week. It was completely dark in the hospital during load-shedding and it had badly affected the operating theatre, ICU, casualty, neonatal unit and mortuary fridges.

It is unacceptable and embarrassing that the hospital runs out of basic medicine like Betadine solution for such a long period. It is also clear there are many unresolved challenges that Ramathuba and her department must intervene and address at the hospital.

The DA cares about and is committed to ensuring that Limpopo residents receive the  quality healthcare services they deserve.

Issued by Risham Maharaj MPL - DA Limpopo Spokesperson for Health