02 Dec 2019

Parliament has learned that seriously ill patients are treated as an emergency and do not go on waiting lists to see specialists. Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Lemogang Kwape, however, noted that it was unfortunate that some patients died while waiting to see specialists.

He said the ministry was working tirelessly to avail the necessary personnel and services to alleviate the situation.

He said international standards stipulated that seriously ill patients by definition were an emergency and should follow an emergency referral route. He said those who were not serious were elective cases that should be booked and be seen within a reasonable time. Dr Kwape said Botswana followed international standards except in circumstances where there may be challenges in specialist availability.

The minister further said the ministry was working tirelessly to recruit and have the necessary manpower to address health challenges. He said there were plans to upgrade hospitals to become fit for purpose to bring health services closer to people. Nata-Gweta MP, Mr Polson Majaga wanted to know if the ministry would consider shortening the booking waiting period for seriously ill patients. He also asked if the ministry was aware that some patients died while waiting to be seen by doctors.

He also asked if the ministry considered such as best practice throughout the world or whether it only happened in Botswana, and when this would be rectified. ENDS