Patients at Tembisa Hospital have been left uncertain about their care following two separate fires that severely disrupted operations.
Among those affected is a 77-year-old stroke patient who, like many others, now faces delays in receiving urgent medical attention.
The first fire broke out over the weekend, damaging the hospital’s emergency unit. Just days later, another blaze erupted early Wednesday morning in the outpatient department, reportedly destroying an unknown number of patient records.
Ekurhuleni Emergency Services responded swiftly, managing to contain the flames and launching efforts to recover any surviving documents from the damaged areas. Despite their rapid intervention, the impact on hospital operations has been significant.
Outpatients have been hit the hardest. Already dealing with the aftermath of the initial fire, many arrived at the hospital on Wednesday morning only to encounter confusion and delays. Hospital staff are working to restore services, but disruptions remain widespread, leaving patients frustrated and uncertain.
The chaotic start to the week has raised concerns about the continuity of care for those relying on the facility. Health authorities, including Deputy Health Minister Joe Phaahla and Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, are expected to provide an update on the extent of the damage and outline plans for restoring services.
As the situation unfolds, patients and families continue to wait anxiously for clarity on when – or if – they will receive the care they urgently need.
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