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Lesemang Matuka
 
The team of health workers at Heidelberg Hospital in Sedibeng District is showing signs of a renewed spirit of serving and high level of commitment to improve patient experience.  
 
Entering the hospital - one is welcomed by a warm, welcoming attitude from the security and front office staff that helps set the tone from the moment you walk in. 
 
Boosted by the new leadership in place and new way of doing things, the facility which was once dubbed "awubuyi (loosely translated as when you go there you don't come back or Tshepe Noto (the local funeral parlour) by the community members is turning a new leaf. And judging by comments from stakeholders the hospital is heading in the right direction.
 
According to the newly appointed acting Chief Executive Officer Ms. Lebohang Khumalo, amongst others, when she joined the hospital she made sure that the management go back to basics and bring life to the Department's six priorities, namely: ensuring that management is assisting in service areas, regular gamber walks, introducing surgical department i.e. SOPD thus increasing theatre utilization and curbing patients being transferred to Thelle Mogoarane Hospital for minor operations, presenting status of the hospital to staff in staff meeting where management is accounting to staff on activities of the hospital, resuscitation of the hospital board meeting, introduction on MANCOM, Wound Care Committee with prospects of opening wound Management Center as well as initiating  engagement with local municipality in order to partner in community health education.
 
In describing her management style, the CEO of 102 years Hospital said she believe in inclusive leadership where everyone must be involved in decision making at their level. 
 
"I believe in an open-door policy that deals with problems as and when they arise.
As a leader I also believe in staff performance appraisals. People must be appreciated for good work done e.g. team of the month for January 2020 was cleaning department who breakfast was served in appreciation of their good work. As a token of appreciation to all staff members, EXCO members distributed chocolates to staff and patients on Valentine's Day", explained the straight talking CEO.