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5 March 2009

The Minister of health, Mrs Barbara Hogan's visit today has brought further hope for the improvement of the health care system in the Free State.

Minister Hogan interacted with various stakeholders as part of seeking solutions to the challenges facing the health system in the Free State.

“We are very fortunate that the Minister and her delegation showed understanding and support for the challenges we are facing. Our current position was never a result of any form of incompetence from either province or national government. We are pleased that the Minister practically assessed the state of health system in the province and emphasised that there needs to be a joint effort to come up with tangible intermediate and long term solutions with the provincial health leaders and managers, provincial and national treasury” said Mr Sakhiwo Belot, MEC for health.

The Minister's visit was not limited to the recent Antiretroviral (ARV) shortage in the province as she had lengthy productive discussions with the Provincial Health MEC and Head of Department, Professor Pax Ramela on a range of issues.

“Our discussions today mainly revolved around the interim financial status quo and financial projection for the 2009/10 financial year for the Free State Provincial Health Department. Our discussions also focused on the strategic initiatives the province can embark on to ensure improved quality health care services” said Ms Hogan, Minister for health.

From discussions the Minister and MEC had with senior officials of the department, particularly hospital Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), it became evident the concerns raised emphasised the need for a strategic collective effort by all leaders in the sector. It is a fact that their concerns are also of national concern.

The Minister indicated that part of the key solutions evident today, is that treasury will be approached for additional funding that will at least address the burden faced by the province in rolling out ARVs, provision of medicines, and employment of additional staff in hospitals, amongst others Mr Belot said.

The Minister also visited health facilities such as the Pelonomi regional hospital, facilities at the Motheo district services including the Poly clinic and the HIV clinic and Heidedal maternity. The Minister was joined in her visit by high ranking officials from her department.

Enquiries:
Elke de Witt
Cell: 083 561 6517
Tel: 051 408 1273
Fax: 051 408 1579
E-mail: dewitte@fshealth.gov.za

Issued by: Department of Health, Free State Provincial Government
5 March 2009