Zuko Komisa
The Health Department has found several allegations made against the Helen Joseph Hospital by former broadcaster Tom London as unsubstantiated.
Health Ombud Professor, Taole Mokoena, delivered the findings following an investigative report into the hospital.
In 2024, London took to social media, documenting his experiences and leveling serious accusations against the hospital staff and facilities.
His complaints centered on allegations of negligence, insensitive treatment, and severely compromised infrastructure.
He described instances where patients were, in his words, “treated like cockroaches” highlighting a perceived lack of basic human dignity.
London further detailed instances of unattended patients, unsanitary conditions, and a general disregard for patient well-being.
London also highlighted the infrastructure challenges, including malfuctioning equipment, and generally poor conditions of the building. The viral videos and social media posts have prompted the Gauteng Department of Health to launch an investigation into the matter.
Tom London further details one of the events he experienced at the Helen Joseph Hospital and highlights patient mistreatment, negligence and health concerns @KayaNews pic.twitter.com/PfICifNQNS
— Kaya ON 959 (@KayaON959) September 9, 2024
CEO Dr Siphiwe Mndaweni released an investigative report into the hospital alongside that of the Health Ombudsman.
While most allegations of made by former broadcaster have been found as unsubstantiated – both departments made additional findings into the hospital pointing to alleged financial mismanagement and a dysfunctional staff cohort and board.
According to the Health Ombud, only two of the seven documented claims could be substantiated.
This includes the fact that the hospital’s infrastructure was in poor condition and that London had to wait three days to be admitted to the medical ward. The investigation also found that security, meal delivery, and the availability of clean linen were among the support services that were declining.
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