A private hospital in Bloemfontein has partnered with the Free State Department of Health to reduce a backlog of more than 4,000 surgeries including cataract and urology cases.
Emoya Med Hospital has started the effort during Mandela Month by covering costs for ten patients needing cataract removal and urology procedures. Six high-cost surgeries have already taken place at the facility.
MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi said the department sought help because of staff shortages and limited government theatre capacity. He noted that the ten patients would pay nothing for their care.
Dr Vivian Simmons expressed hope that the program could expand to other hospitals on an annual basis. The hospital plans a cost analysis after Mandela Month to assess further procedures.
Patients expressed gratitude for the assistance which allowed them to receive treatment without delay or expense.
