The DA in Limpopo is deeply concerned with the future of the Shiluvana Frail care centre following the appointment of a new company to manage the facility.
In response to questions from the DA, the Limpopo Department of Social Development HoD indicated that the department had appointed Intercity Ambulances JV Makotse Women’s Club.
The other responses to our questions were vague. When questioned on whether the newly appointed company had a track record of dealing with severely handicapped patients and patients with mental health problems, the department indicated that there were five elements under technical evaluation and that they were allocated scores, but did not indicate the scoring outcome or provide information on the company’s track record in mental healthcare and frail care .
The department also indicated that a track record in operating or managing a specialised chronic care facility for mental health patients was not one of the requirements on the terms of reference despite many of the 160 patients having intellectual disabilities or needing medical assistance due to their mental health and remaining in the facility for longer periods.
It is worrying that the department was still in the process of trying to inform families of patients at the centre of the change of management only a month and a half before it takes place.
The Social Development department failed to provide the reasons for discontinuing with Life Nkanyisa that had run the facility for a very long period and has a track record in the mental healthcare field and frail care.
While there is nothing wrong with the appointment of a new company there is real concern with whether this new service provider has a track record of managing such a facility.
Due to the failure by the department to provide comprehensive answers on the newly appointed company, we have now written to the Office of Health Ombud to ascertain if the new service provider has the requisite track record and experience to care for patients at the centre and avoid another potential Life Esidimeni tragedy.
We believe it is important to ensure this company is capable of providing the necessary services and has a track record in dealing with mental health care patients and those in need of frail care before we witness unnecessary tragedy.
The issue of management of the Shiluvana Frail Care Centre and the responsibility for its patient’s needs must be addressed urgently before problems arise. The DA will continue to monitor this matter.