A dedicated team of volunteer doctors and nurses at the Bongani Regional Hospital led a Orthopaedic Marathon on 22 June.
“This humanitarian effort was aimed at reducing the backlog in operations and hospital admissions,” says Dr Reggie Mkatsane, head of clinical services at Bongani.
He says Welkom has a high prevalence of trauma and violence, which results in a high patient influx and demand for orthopaedic services.
“We have seen numbers climb post Covid-19, and to date there has been an increase in motor vehicle accidents, assaults and various kinds of trauma, including gender-based violence.”
He says their team of doctors, led by Dr Tiro Rooi, head orthopedic surgeon, and Dr Seta Machai, head of anaesthesia, embark on this Orthopaedic Blitz almost every month.
This year’s theme is to “Serve with Gratitude”.
“This exercise also provides an opportunity for us as healthcare workers to reflect on our deep-seated commitment in serving others.”
He said 11 patients were attended to during June’s blitz.
“We will continue to strive to reduce the backlog,” he said.
“Bongani has an amazing team of professionals.
“The mood within the hospital is always positive. You see professionals and experts from various walks of life, and with one aim of serving the community.”
