The chronic shortages of ambulances in the Free State, despite the Provincial Department of Health’s promise to improve ambulance replacement during the current financial year, is cause for concern.
According to the first quarter report of the department, it requires 291 ambulances and 2 328 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) officials for optimal operation. However, due to budget constraints, it currently operates with only 149 ambulances and 1 523 EMS officials.
“This shortage persists despite the departmental budget exceeding R14.6 billion, of which R995,8 million is allocated specifically for Emergency Medical Services,” says David Masoeu, member of the provincial legislature (MPL).
As the Free State Province prepares for the festive season, the strategic positioning of ambulances along main routes becomes crucial to ensure timely emergency responses. This is particularly important given the province’s central location and the expected heavy holiday traffic that typically results in increased road accidents and medical emergencies.
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Masoeu says this current shortage raises serious questions about the province’s capacity to respond effectively to the anticipated surge in emergency calls during the peak travel period.
“The Democratic Alliance has taken several steps to address this crisis, including submitting questions through the Legislature for written replies and raising the issue during budget vote debates. The party has consistently highlighted the repercussions of the ambulance shortage across the Free State.”
The significant disparity between available resources and operational requirements raises questions about budget prioritisation within the health department. With nearly R1 billion allocated to Emergency Medical Services, the current shortfall of 142 ambulances and 805 EMS officials suggests either inadequate funding allocation or procurement challenges.
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This crisis underscores broader concerns about healthcare capacity in the Free State, where residents and travellers depend on timely emergency medical response for life-threatening situations.
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