Budget constraints a major contributor to problems at public healthcare facilities - Phaahla

JOHANNESBURG - Deputy Health Minister Joe Phaahla said that the problems in public healthcare facilities like the Helen Joseph Hospital were systemic and could be attributed to a lack of budget.

Phaahla said that an investigation was underway following a video that went viral showing patient, Tom London, detailing deplorable conditions and patient treatment at the hospital.

London's video has sparked a conversation about the state of the public healthcare system.

ALSO READ:

• Tom London: Gauteng health committee wants report from Helen Joseph Hospital

• After viral video criticising Helen Joseph, GP Health Dept dismisses claims its hospitals are shoddy

• Gauteng Health Dept probing claims of inhumane treatment at Helen Joseph Hospital

The deputy minister said that the budget constraints, particularly in human resources, were the main contributor to problems at state facilities and must be addressed urgently.

"The fact that the health budgets have not been growing amongst other things, not just human resources, but also in terms of upgrading equipment and consumables, that has a major impact."