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The construction of an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) station in Piketberg is well under way. Once completed, the facility will be able to provide basic life support to patients and transport them to appropriate medical facilities.

This R12 million project was commissioned by the Department of Transport and Public Works for the Western Cape Health Department. Construction started in April 2015 and is expected to have been completed in July 2016.

The facility is adjacent to the Radie Kotze Hospital. It will be able to accommodate up to 26 emergency personal staff, two patient transporters, five ambulances, one rescue vehicle and a trailer, two service vehicles, and a rescue boat. The low maintenance design will provide long-term benefits for staff members and patients.

The Department is committed to providing Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) work opportunities and to developing emerging contractor businesses in its undertakings. To date, R1,7 million has been spent on targeted enterprises and manufactures and R350 000 has been spent on local labour from the Berg River municipal area. In addition, a total of 40 beneficiaries, including five youth, received technical training on site.

The Western Cape Government’s Provincial Strategic Goal 1 aims to improve wellness in the province. By delivering quality health facilities, on time, where they are needed most, the Department of Transport and Public Works is living its mission of delivering infrastructure and services to promote positive socio-economic outcomes and safe, empowered and connected communities.

Issued by Western Cape Government