By Dipo Olowookere
The Portfolio Committee on Health said it has welcomed the report by the Health Ombudsman on the deaths of mentally ill patients who were transferred from Life Esidimeni facility to non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
According to the report, a total of 94 mentally ill patients died following their transfer from Life Esidimeni facility to 27 NGO’s between the 23rd March and 19th December 2016.
The reports stated that the patients were transferred to NGOs that lacked basic competence, experience, leadership capacity to care for mentally ill patients and were operating under invalid licenses.
Acting Committee Chairperson Mr Fish Mahlalela said, “we are saddened and horrified by the horrific report and we urge the Minister of Health to ensure appropriate actions are taken and the recommendations are fully implemented as a matter of urgency”.
The Committee further welcomes the pronouncements by the Gauteng Premier to act on the recommendations made by the Health Ombudsman. The Committee also welcomed the resignation of the former MEC of Health, Ms Qedani Mahlangu, following the release of the damning report.
“We welcome the placement of Dr Gwen Ramokgopa in the position of Health MEC. Those that have acted improperly on the matter need to face disciplinary actions,” said Mr Mahlalela.
The Committee will deal with the report once made available by the Minister of Health in accordance with the rules of parliament.
The Committee would like to extend its heartfelt condolences to all the affected families.
