The Gauteng Department of Health has warned that corruption will not be tolerated at public healthcare facilities following complaints that some patients are allegedly paying officials to jump queues and gain preferential access to services.
The department said it had received allegations involving patients paying officials to bypass queues when scheduling appointments, accessing patient files and collecting medication from pharmacies.
Gauteng Department of Health spokesperson Steve Mabona said the allegations were serious and credible complaints involving officials accused of soliciting or accepting bribes would be investigated.
“The GDoH reiterates that public healthcare services are not for sale. No patient should have to pay an official to receive a service to which they are entitled,” Mabona said.
Officials who accept money or other benefits in exchange for performing or speeding up their duties could face disciplinary action and possible criminal consequences under the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act.
The department also urged patients not to remain silent when asked for money or offered preferential treatment in exchange for payment.
Patients who encounter alleged corruption while at a healthcare facility are encouraged to immediately approach the Office of the Chief Executive Officer or the Quality Assurance Office so that the complaint can be recorded and investigated.
Members of the public can also report suspected corruption by emailing patientscomplaints.health@gauteng.gov.za, sending an SMS to 35023 or contacting the department’s 24-hour customer line on 0800 203 886.
The department said reporting suspected bribery would help protect patients and ensure public healthcare services are provided fairly and without discrimination.
It further called on healthcare officials to maintain high standards of integrity and professionalism, warning that corruption within Gauteng’s public healthcare system would not be tolerated.
