News

Hospital provided emergency care to wounded officer

Netcare sets the record straight
Monday, May 5 2025

Netcare has reaffirmed its dedication to providing critical care to all individuals in need, including the members of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), clarifying earlier reports.

Netcare confirms that on the night of 30 April 2025, a JMPD officer received immediate, lifesaving treatment at Netcare Milpark Hospital. Following established global trauma protocols for Priority One patients – those with the most time sensitive, potentially life threatening injuries – the officer underwent comprehensive screening and was stabilised before being transferred to another appropriate facility under the guidance of a leading trauma surgeon.  

“As always, our priority as healthcare professionals is the wellbeing of our patients and we remain fully committed to providing only the highest level of emergency care to every individual who comes through our doors. That wholehearted dedication extends to the members of the JMPD and others who risk their lives to protect our communities,” says Dr Erich Bock, managing director of Netcare’s Hospital Division.

“We wish to acknowledge the dedication of trauma professionals in emergency departments across both the public and private sectors who work according to international trauma protocols to secure quality care for their patients.”

The officer later underwent a procedure at another Netcare facility, where he continues to receive world-class medical attention. “We are doing everything in our power to support our patient and will continue to closely monitor his progress and care while providing full support to him, his family, loved ones, and colleagues during this challenging time,” added Dr Bock.

Netcare acknowledges that, unfortunately, outstanding payments are owed to the organisation, including payments to the independent private practitioners who practise at Netcare Milpark Hospital and other healthcare facilities. 

“Netcare remains fully committed to providing emergency healthcare services in good faith. In many emergency situations, patients are transferred either from private to public facilities, or from public to private, but only after their condition has been stabilised. We rely on fair and timely compensation to ensure the sustainability of our operations and the continued availability of expert medical professionals. We are actively engaged in ongoing discussions with the City of Johannesburg and are hopeful that a swift and equitable resolution will soon be found.
 
“Netcare deeply values the service of JMPD officers and all professionals who safeguard our country and its people. We have a long and proud history of providing lifesaving care to these individuals, and we will continue to stand by them,” concluded Dr Bock.

Ends.

For media enquiries, please contact MNA at the contact details listed below:

Issued by:     MNA on behalf of Netcare Hospital Division
For media enquiries contact:      Martina Nicholson, Meggan Saville, Estene Lotriet-Vorster, 
Clementine Forsthofer or Natasha Burger
Telephone:     011 469 3016
Email:     [email protected]