Residents took to social media last week to express frustration over the temporary closure of the Westdene clinic, with many questioning whether the Free State department of health communicated the closure effectively enough to patients.
The concerns intensified after a picture circulated online showing five elderly residents standing outside the closed clinic, sparking criticism from community members who claimed vulnerable patients had not been properly informed.
One resident commented, “Apparently, people were notified. But the fact that there are still people coming means there is a need for a notice board to inform patients, old or new, about the current situation.”
Providing clarity on the matter, Free State department of health spokesperson Mondli Mvambi said the department had communicated the temporary closure through several platforms before the clinic shut its doors on 5 May.
“The department shared information about the closure through various communication channels, including contacting booked patients telephonically for referral arrangements and linking them to their preferred facilities.”
He added announcements were also made on local radio stations, information was distributed at bus lines and taxi routes servicing Thaba Nchu and Botshabelo, and posters were placed at the clinic informing patients about the temporary closure for refurbishing.
Mvambi further explained a district mobile clinic was stationed at the Westdene clinic premises to assist patients who may have missed the notices.
“The mobile clinic is assisting patients who may not have received the communication and updating those arriving at the facility.”
According to Mvambi, the closure follows a prohibition notice issued by the department of employment and labour in December last year due to unsafe infrastructure and poor working conditions at the clinic.
The concerns reportedly included deep cracks in the walls, the risk of filing cabinets collapsing, and insufficient workspace that compromised safe working conditions and social distancing. The clinic is expected to remain closed for three months while maintenance and refurbishment work is carried out. During this period, patients have been redirected to the Gateway clinic at National District Hospital for healthcare services.
Clement Matroos
[email protected]
