CAPE TOWN – The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness officially opened the new Ravensmead Community Day Centre (CDC) on Friday 2 October, replacing an outdated clinic that could no longer meet the healthcare needs of the growing community.

The state-of-the-art facility, backed by an investment of more than R105 million, is expected to serve approximately 6 800 patients every month.

Designed with patient well-being at its core, the modern building features improved patient flow, spacious care areas, abundant natural light and ventilation and a central location accessible to residents who rely on public transport.

Mireille Wenger, Western Cape MEC for Health and Wellness, said investing in modern, well-designed healthcare facilities is one of the province’s key priorities. “Patient well-being has been placed at the centre of this design and, with the expansion of services at this new clinic, we are building a stronger, more accessible healthcare system for all.”

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Services under one roof

The new CDC brings a significantly expanded basket of services to the community, including:

• emergency care and treatment of minor adult ailments;
• chronic disease management and nutrition support;
• HIV and TB services, including prevention of vertical transmission;
• mental health and registered counselling services;
• antenatal and postnatal care;
• school health services and youth sones;
• immunisation (EPI) and well-baby services;
• Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses (IMCI);
• contraception and sexual and reproductive health services;
• cervical cancer screening;
• oral health and dental care; and
• pharmacy services.

The facility will operate daily from 07:00 to 16:30, with the existing healthcare team – including medical officers, professional and clinical nurses, pharmacy personnel and administrative support staff – transitioning to ensure continuity of care.

Community vision realised

Dr Michael Phillips, director of the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness for the Northern and Tygerberg Sub-structure, reflected on the journey to the opening of the facility. “Through all the pain, struggles, negotiations and engagements we have jointly manifested the dream of the Ravensmead community and surrounding communities accessing care. May this facility be a pleasant experience as citizens journey through its corridors,” he said.

Sister Izanne van Heerden, operational manager of the Ravensmead CDC, expressed excitement about welcoming patients into the new space. “This is more than just a new building – it is a place where our community can access the care and support they need, in a more comfortable and welcoming environment.”

She also called on the community to take ownership of the facility and work with staff as they settle in, acknowledging there may be a few teething problems along the way.

Dawn Marcus, a community member and chairperson of the facility’s health committee, said the new facility gives the community reason to be hopeful. “It reminds us that when people come together with a common goal, positive change is possible. Healthcare works best when the community and healthcare providers work together.”

The opening of the Ravensmead CDC represents a significant investment in healthcare infrastructure and the Department of Health and Wellness’s commitment to bringing quality healthcare services closer to communities across the Western Cape.

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