Paramedics from Ekurhuleni are forced to ration, borrow or even buy using their own money, basic medical items meant to treat injured people in ambulances.
This is according to DA Gauteng Health Spokesperson Jack Bloom, who said ambulances in Ekurhuleni are facing a shortage bandages, oxygen masks, gauze, linen savers, syringes, intravenous needles, space blankets, alcohol swabs and nebulisers.
Bloom revealed that the store room at the fire station in Palmridge, Alberton was short of other items as well, with lots of empty shelves.
“Medical consumables are ordered from the Gauteng Health Department, but supplies have been erratic and grossly inadequate for about a year.” He said in a statement.
He added that the problem is due to the non-payment of suppliers.
“I have alerted Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu about this unacceptable situation that endangers the lives of patients. I hope she takes quick action to ensure adequate supplies for all emergency ambulances in Gauteng” he said in a statement.
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