SAMA concerned about the strain healthcare workers face during festive season

JOHANNESBURG - The South African Medical Association (SAMA) has raised concern over the strain faced by healthcare workers over the festive season.

SAMA said that hospitals and clinics experienced a surge in patient numbers during this time.

It said it was worrying that emergency incidents increased due to higher levels of alcohol consumption during the festive season.

The South African Medical Association said that a number of challenges faced by the country during this time of the year were linked to alcohol abuse.

These include violent crimes, road fatalities and drowning incidents.

SAMA chairperson, Dr Mvuyisi Mzukwa, said that this, in turn, puts a major strain on health workers who were already facing burnout.

"We know at this time during the festive season in South Africa, alcohol consumption often increases due to celebrations, social gatherings and holiday events. But excessive drinking as we know during this time, can lead to several dangerous consequences both individually and also in society at large."

SAMA has urged the government to take a tougher stance against alcohol abuse in order to reduce strain on the health system.