The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is prioritising the health and safety of all patients during this cold season. With winter here many people are navigating health-care facilities visits amid cold and wet conditions. While winter brings its own set of challenges the department wants to ensure that those visiting their local clinic is safe and comfortable.
Health-care facilities across the province have appointment systems in place to ensure you can cut down on longer waiting times and only arrive 30 minutes before your appointment.
“At our facilities we put our patient’s health requirements first to keep our vulnerable patients such as the elderly and children safe during the cold weather,” says Ingrid Theron, dietician at Gustrouw Clinic in Strand.
Here are more ways to stay warm and safe this winter:
Avoid queues: Reduce early queueing in cold and wet conditions by making use of the appointment system. By scheduling your visit you can ensure a smoother experience upon arrival.
Arrive on time: Arriving on time not only helps to manage queues but can reduce waiting times for others. If you cannot attend your appointment and need to reschedule, please reach out to your clinic to set a new date.
Prioritising vulnerable groups: Clinic staff understands the importance of protecting vulnerable patients, such as the elderly and children during cold weather. They ask for your understanding as they prioritise your needs on bad weather days, ensuring safety and well-being.
Safety first: Your safety is important. Queueing in the dark poses a security risk and visitors are encouraged to arrive at the facility at least 30 minutes before the appointment, whenever possible. This precautionary measure ensures visibility and enhances overall safety.
Speak to us, be heard: Your feedback matters. Whether it’s concerns about long queues or discomfort during cold weather conditions. Provide suggestions how services can improve. Clinic staff are committed to listening and improving services. Help them serve you better by sharing your feedback with facility managers through the following channels:
- SMS: Send the word “Help” followed by your name, the nature of your suggestion or complaint, facility, and, if applicable, the name of a staff member to 31022.
- Call: Dial 0860 142 142 and press “1” to speak with a representative.
- Please Call Me: Reach out via 079 769 1207, and you will be promptly assisted.
- Email: Send your concerns to service@westerncape.gov.za, and it will be addressed with care and urgency.
- Share anonymous feedback: Share your concerns by adding your name or remaining anonymous. Simply add your feedback to your facility’s suggestion or complaints box.
What about accessing emergency care?
You can access emergency care at your local clinic. Remember, clinics follow the triage system. This means that when you enter a facility you are assessed and triaged to ensure you are seen according to the degree of urgency your condition requires.
Patients are triaged green, yellow, orange or red, with red representing being the most urgent cases.
If you are triaged yellow and green and you do not require a life-saving intervention, this could mean that you will have a much longer waiting time if visiting a facility’s emergency centre, especially when it is very busy over weekends and after hours.
Find your closest clinic here: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/directories/facilities/944
Keeping healthy at home this winter
In addition to preparing for your visit, it’s important to protect your overall health during the colder month. Remember to stay proactive by getting your flu vaccine at your local clinic and making healthy choices to keep your immune system strong. Here are some additional tips for staying healthy this winter, including simple steps you can take at home:
“As dieticians, we teach patients how to eat healthy because being healthy is important,” said Theron. “Eating healthy plays a role in combating lifestyle diseases. We encourage patients to eat balanced diets and you don’t necessarily need a lot of money to eat healthy, you can make healthy choices.”
Get your flu shot: Protect yourself and others by getting the flu vaccine. It’s one of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal flu and its complications. The vaccine, simply put, works by giving our bodies the necessary tools it needs to fight off the flu.
Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching common surfaces. Use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available. Remember to assist children by teaching them the importance of keeping their hands clean.
Stay active: Exercise regularly to boost your immune system and improve overall health. Even simple activities like walking or stretching indoors can make a difference. Join a community wellness group, if you are able to.
Eat a balanced diet: Take care of your body with healthy foods. Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods can help support your immune system. If you require support, please speak to a healthcare worker who can refer you to a dietitian or social worker for support.
Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day protects your health. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.
Get plenty of rest: Prioritise sleep and aim for eight hours of quality sleep each night. A well-rested body is better equipped to fight infections.
Manage stress: Find healthy ways to cope with stress, speak to someone you trust if you’re feeling stressed or engage in hobbies you enjoy. If you need to speak to someone, remember you can reach out to a healthcare worker or make an appointment for professional support.
Take your medication: It is important to continue taking your medication, even if you are feeling better. Take your medication as discussed with your health-care provider. If you have any questions about your medication, remember to reach out, speak to your healthcare provider or call your clinic.
Locals are implored to help clinic staff help keep them healthy and safe this winter; wellness begins with each individual. Remember to reach out if there are any questions or concerns.
