On Friday (28 October), Dludlu, who now works at Gauteng EMS’ admin clerk, was among Gauteng EMS employees recognised for their bravery and commitment to serve as part of the National EMS Day. He was handed a state- of-the-art mechanical wheelchair and an electronic workstation that will enable to move around and to perform his work duties with ease.

Paying tribute to Dludlu and his fellow colleagues, the Gauteng MEC for Health, Ms Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko thanked the Green Angels, as Gauteng EMS are popularly known, for their heroism and determination to serve the people of Gauteng in spite of the many challenges they have to face, including attacks from communities.

The EMS Day was celebrated under the theme: “Paying tribute to EMS heroes for their selflessness and saving communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“Although you rarely see the patient’s entire health care journey given that you are mainly providing the first point of care as you respond to various emergency calls, your job in the health eco system is critical.

“It truly is commendable how you manage to daily face trauma and tragedy, as well as life-or-death situations and still be able to show kindness, compassion, and the utmost professionalism,” stated MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.

The day was used to recognise EMS personnel through issuing of certificates, medals and trophies in the following categories (see attached list):
• Medals for all Green Angels for being heroes during the Covid-19
• pandemic.

• The Special Operations team that was deployed to Kwa Zulu Natal floods. • Best performing Students at Lebone Collage for Emergency Care
• Long Service recognition for staff that served the department for 30 years. • Districts Special Recognition Award.

As part of improving patient experience of care MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko also unveiled additional vehicles to bolster the Gauteng EMS’s response to emergency calls across the province.

Thirty Obstetric / ICU Ambulances were handed to districts. The ambulances will help to relieve the pressure of maternal deaths and increasing service delivery needs at the high case load health facilities including private sector hospitals that refer patients to the public sector. These custom-made ambulances are resourced with state-of -the-art medical equipment to accommodate births that happen while transporting patients to hospital and have incubation capability.

Another 25 G-SET vehicles (Gauteng Scheduled Emergency Transport) Ambulances) were also unveiled. This will help to enhance Gauteng EMS performance and reduce response time as it allows for a seamless 24-hour transportation system between health facilities on predetermined routes and times for non-critical patients. The G-SET model has been piloted in three health districts (Johannesburg, Tshwane and West Rand).

Under the G-SET operational model, hospitals will no longer be required to call EMS Communication Center when requiring transportation of stable patients as there will be regular shuttle in between facilities.

Other vehicles that were unveiled during EMS Day include 20 rescue response bakkies which have capabilities to enter hard to reach areas especially during rainy seasons.

MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko said the vehicles could not have come at the right time as the Department is now gearing up for the holiday season and festive period which usually results in Gauteng EMS responding to an increased number of emergencies.

Ends/

Issued by the Gauteng Department of Health

For more information, contact Tshepo Shawa, Spokesperson: MEC for Health 072 222 6333 or Tshepo.Shawa@gauteng.gov.za

Or
Motalatale Modiba, Gauteng Department of Health Head of

Communication 064 803 0808 or mediaenquiries@gauteng.gov.za

For media releases, speeches and news visit the Gauteng Department of Health’s portal at www.gauteng.gov.za.