Netcare’s management has once more expressed heartfelt sympathy to the parents of a baby who passed away at Netcare Femina Hospital on 29 May 2023, and affirmed its commitment to the Health Ombud’s in-depth investigation into the tragedy.
“We share deeply in the family’s grief over the loss of their precious son. No words can adequately express our sorrow and regret for their profound loss,” said Tau Kgomongwe, general manager of Netcare Femina Hospital.
Dr Erich Bock, managing director of Netcare’s hospital division, welcomed the opportunity the Health Ombud’s investigation presented for transparent introspection and identifying system improvements. “Independent review processes such as this strengthen our healthcare system by providing clarity for families and healthcare professionals while ensuring the highest standards of patient care are upheld.”
According to Dr Bock, the electronic records system was specifically designed to enhance patient safety, including helping to prevent medication administration errors. “Since its implementation in 2019 and its gradual rollout across our operations countrywide, the system has evolved significantly, strengthening its role as a robust patient safety tool.”
Following the Health Ombud’s findings, Netcare has proactively embraced the recommendations and is implementing them according to the established timelines. Key improvements already in place include:
- Mandatory forensic post-mortems when medication errors may have contributed to a patient’s death.
- Annual review and sign-off of all medication protocols by nursing staff.
- Enhanced shift handover monitoring with unit managers present for patient reports.
- System upgrades to instantly notify all users of the electronic medical records system (CareOn) of new add-ons.
Dr Bock added that Netcare’s teams are actively working to ensure that the remaining recommendations scheduled for implementation in May, June and August 2026 are in place ahead of their respective deadlines.
“Throughout this difficult journey, Netcare Femina Hospital is maintaining open dialogue with the family of the baby to address their concerns constructively and transparently. We remain available to the family and are committed to continuing this engagement for as long as it may be of any comfort to them,” noted Kgomongwe.
“Every member of our team, from nursing staff to doctors and management, is committed to honouring the memory of the baby by ensuring our systems and processes protect every patient in our care, especially the most vulnerable among us,” concluded Dr Bock.
Ends.
For media enquiries, please contact MNA at the contact details listed below:
Issued by: MNA on behalf of Netcare Femina Hospital
For media enquiries contact: Martina Nicholson, Meggan Saville, Estene Lotriet-Vorster,
Clementine Forsthofer or Natasha Burger
Telephone: 011 469 3016
Email: [email protected]