The lifts at Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital in Kimberley have been out of order since September 22, where heavily pregnant women had to walk up three flights of stairs to reach the maternity ward.
THE LIFTS at Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital in Kimberley have been out of order since September 22, where heavily pregnant women had to walk up three flights of stairs to reach the maternity ward.
A woman reportedly went into labour on the stairs over the weekend while another expectant mother, who was carrying twins, also had to walk up the stairs in order to get to the maternity ward.
It is believed that the company servicing the lifts are apparently unwilling to repair the lifts as they have not received payment from the Department of Health.
It was indicated that one of the lifts in the block was functioning again this week, although everyone was making use of the lift, resulting in long queues.
Northern Cape Department of Health spokesperson Lulu Mxekezo said the lifts at Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital were in working order at the maternity section. “Payment arrangements will be made with service providers,” she added.
