The Gauteng Department of Health has dismissed claims that patient care was compromised at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital despite recent challenges with hot water and food supply.
Department spokesperson Motalatale Modiba acknowledged temporary issues, including corroded water pipes affecting two blocks and a March food supply delay due to a municipal compliance issue with a contracted kitchen. However, he insisted patients consistently received three nutritious meals daily, with alternatives provided when certain items were unavailable.
Critics, including staff and families, reported instances of food shortages, with some patients relying on outside meals. Modiba attributed the situation to unavoidable delays in repairing specialized equipment and maintained that no patients were left without food or essential care.
Repairs to the water system are underway, with the department emphasizing that maintenance delays were due to the unavailability of custom-made parts rather than neglect.
While the department asserts the issues are resolved, concerns remain over systemic vulnerabilities in the hospital’s supply chain and infrastructure management.