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Thandeka Moyo, Health Reporter
MPILO Central Hospital has managed to lower deaths recorded at the institution in a day from 27 to less than 10 but the positive trend is threatened by shortage of specialists.
This came out yesterday during graduation of 65 nurses and 82 midwives.
Mpilo clinical director, Dr Solwayo Ngwenya, said he was very happy that the hospital has improved over the past years as there are no deaths due to neglect by health personnel.
Dr Ngwenya, however, said shortage of specialists threaten to reverse the gains made so far.
“We have come a long way as a health system and as Mpilo as evidenced by the decline of our general mortality.
“We used to record about 27 deaths daily a few years ago but we have worked hard to reduce such deaths,” said Dr Ngwenya.
He, however, said the gains may be lost if the current situation is not addressed as a matter of urgency.
“We are appealing to Government to ensure ordinary citizens access health care without paying forex as it is out of reach for many,” said Dr Ngwenya.
He said Mpilo has 18 specialists out of an establishment of 48.
“This has resulted in an increase of patients that we refer to Parirenyatwa Hospital in the capital for specialist care.
“The number has risen to 118 from 31 and this causes unnecessary strains on people’s pockets,” said Dr Ngwenya.
He said the health facilities including pharmacies that are demanding payment in forex were putting the lives of many Zimbabweans at risk.
The guest of honour and United Refineries Limited chief Executive Officer, Mr Busisa Moyo, urged those who graduated to persevere even during hard times.
“One of the reasons why I managed to get this job is because I stayed when others gave up due to challenges. I therefore encourage you to be vigilant and never allow prevailing circumstances to get in the way of your service delivery,” said Mr Moyo.
He said the current forex challenges were not an excuse for them to fail in saving lives.
“You should always offer services that are worth paying for and remember that you are building into your future hence the need to persevere in helping the sick,” he said. — @thamamoe
Online Reporter