Medical emergencies and accidents are a reality of life
Drickus Maartens • May 21, 2020
Netcare ready as always to assist with specialised emergency care
While our world as we knew it might have changed, emergencies remain a reality of life. Even during the lockdown period, people unfortunately still suffer medical emergencies ranging from heart attack, stroke, concussion or broken bones from falls, right through to burns and injuries from road accidents.
“In recent weeks, we have received a number of requests from members of the community seeking assurance that the emergency departments (EDs) at our hospitals remain ready and committed to treat all emergencies,” says Mande Toubkin, general manager emergency, trauma, transplants and corporate social investment at Netcare.
“Your healthcare needs are our priority. While the last two months have been a very difficult time for everyone and the COVID-19 pandemic has affected all of our lives dramatically, essential healthcare services have been accessible throughout for those in need of healthcare assistance. Our EDs stand ready to assist all emergency cases.”
Toubkin says there is no need to postpone seeking urgent and emergency medical care at an ED because you may be anxious or uncertain about the safety of the environment at hospitals, as strict precautionary safeguards are firmly in place within all Netcare EDs to maintain a safe environment.
“All persons seeking assistance at our EDs are risk assessed and if indicated are tested for COVID-19 in specially erected facilities at the entrances to the EDs. All ED facilities have been demarcated into specific areas, to treat patients appropriately according to their risk profile and dramatically reduce the possibility of cross-infection. Infection prevention is further enhanced through continuous deep cleaning of the EDs. Although the facilities may look a little different because of the strict infection prevention measures, they enable us to take care of every person more safely.
“Furthermore, all our staff members are screened daily for COVID-19 and are not permitted to work if they show any possible symptoms related to COVID-19 infection. All doctors, nurses and administrative staff members are wearing protective equipment to protect themselves, as well as the persons seeking emergency care at our facilities. At first, seeing the staff in protective gear including masks and visors, may be a little overwhelming but it is for everyone’s safety.
In addition, we are even able to schedule appointments directly with the ED in your community, to allow individuals to spend as little time in the ED as possible. These measures mean that we are fully prepared to safely manage your healthcare needs when you come to the ED for medical care,” Toubkin explains.
According to Toubkin, Netcare 911’s fleet of ambulances and emergency response vehicles remain fully operational, while maintaining the required infection prevention protocols.
“We urge you to come to the ED if you are concerned about your health, especially if you have severe chest or abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, general weakness or for any other medical problem. You can also call Netcare 911 on 082 911 for ambulance assistance.
“It is more important than ever not to neglect your or your family’s health during this time. Make an appointment with your GP if you or a loved one is unwell, or come to hospital, because YOU are in safe hands in our emergency departments,” Toubkin concludes.
Dr Shikar Mothilal, respiratory specialist, explains how pulmonary fibrosis affects lung function and why early intervention matters.
HPV prevention saves lives and eases healthcare burdens. “Everyone benefits when more women are vaccinated,” says Dr Nono Ledwaba-Mweli.
Obstetrician-gynaecologist Dr Mokgohloe Phasha stresses the importance of sleep during pregnancy.
Ten-year-old Alondwe Ngwenya was, until recently, a child set apart by large, painful tumours disfiguring one side of his face and his foot, holding him back from his greatest passion in life: soccer.
Dr Muhammed Ra’ees Vally explains why children are more susceptible to ear infections and shares tips on recognising the signs and preventing complications.
“Mould exposure, particularly in poorly ventilated indoor environments, can lead to a variety of health symptoms — especially for individuals with underlying respiratory conditions, allergies, or weakened immune systems,” warns Dr Raisa Bhikoo, a pulmonologist and specialist physician.
For many first-time mothers, the idea of weaning can feel overwhelming. paediatric neonatologist Dr Letlhogonolo Sepeng from Netcare Park Lane Hospital offers guidance to help navigate this transition.
Cardiothoracic surgeon and founder of the Young Hearts Africa Foundation, Dr Wilhelm Lichtenberg, has made it his life’s purpose to reach children with life-threatening heart defects like Baby Kendreya Pillay's before it is too late. Since its inception in 2023, the foundation has helped 30 children.
Focus on the Workforce this Winter
Urologists Dr Hannes Brummer and Dr Johan Coetzee, who practise at Netcare Greenacres Hospital, are encouraging men to prioritise prostate cancer screening this Men’s Health Month.
