Government scrambles as health crisis unfolds

 

The Ministry of Health has been forced to implement emergency staffing measures as doctors across the country limit their availability for emergency calls, Health Minister Dr Stephen Modise has revealed.

Speaking at a hastily arranged press briefing Tuesday morning, Dr Modise acknowledged that medical services at several key facilities face disruption despite government efforts to maintain patient care.

'We have rearranged our teams in our hospitals and across hospitals to ensure that no patient is left unattended,' Modise said, admitting that the situation remains challenging.

The crisis centres on Nyangabgwe and Princess Marina referral hospitals, where doctors in multiple departments have reduced emergency call availability despite a court order prohibiting such action.

Rural facilities face even greater challenges, with Kasane Primary Hospital operating with just three of nine doctors willing to cover emergencies.