Gauteng: Health department achieves service goals

The Gauteng Department of Health and Social Development has seen improved take-up rates of patients attending appointments following its efforts to improve the quality of its healthcare and social services.

Its financial report from October to December 2010 revealed that the number of antenatal visits before 20 weeks increased from 29.9% in September 2010 to 32.6% by the end of December 2010, largely through the “Know Your Status” campaign.

In addition, the volume of cervical cancer screenings increased, from 15% at the beginning of 2010 to 65% in the final quarter. The report also revealed improved waiting times in hospitals, as well as a significant increase in the number of children who presented for immunisation during this period.

The department has also made attempts to improve the availability of health professionals, by employing an extra 212 doctors, 254 nurses and 117 allied workers between December 2010 and February 2011.