Shangula applauds Katutura, Onandjokwe hospitals for ‘exemplary’ service

Health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula yesterday congratulated the Katutura and Onandjokwe state hospitals for excellent service rendered to the public.

Speaking at the opening of the week-long national ministerial conference on health and social services in Windhoek, he said while some staff excel and continue to demonstrate compassion and passion in their work, “unfortunately and sadly, the opposite is also true”.

He added: “It was indeed pleasing this past week to observe appreciative comments from the public, applauding staff at Katutura Intermediate Hospital and Onandjokwe Intermediate Hospital for the excellent service provided to our patients”.

Katutura hospital has been subjected to “unfair criticism at times”, he said, adding that it is heartwarming to receive positive comments.



Attitude, ethical conduct

Shangula emphasised the importance of healthcare workers operating with courtesy, empathy and discretion.

“Members of the public cry out about heavy bureaucracy [and] staff members who have no courtesy. There are others who, instead of assisting patients, rather focus on their mobile phones, surfing the internet. This is unacceptable and must be stopped,” the minister said.

“It is critically important to address the shortcomings related to work attitudes and ethical conduct among staff members. This is one of the biggest impediments to delivering quality care,” he said.



Unfair treatment of interns

Meanwhile, Shangula shined a spotlight on interns being given “less than ideal and humane treatment at the hands of some of the senior staff”.

“I encourage all health facilities that host interns to ensure that they offer a conducive learning environment for this next generation of health leaders,” he said.

The minister added: “I wish to call upon all health professionals training interns to foster an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and growth. Anything less is unacceptable and won't be tolerated”.