A R200 million investment has transformed the Emergency and Trauma Centre at Groote Schuur Hospital, with the upgraded facility now operational and treating patients.

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness and Groote Schuur Hospital officially launched the improved centre today (6 October), marking a major investment in emergency and trauma care in the province.

The Emergency Centre began operating from the new facility in July this year, followed by the Trauma Centre on Wednesday 12 August.

The upgraded facility includes modern clinical infrastructure, advanced medical technology, dedicated trauma treatment areas and enhanced resuscitation facilities, designed to support emergency and trauma care in a purpose-built environment.

Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness Mireille Wenger said the investment would strengthen the hospital’s ability to respond to emergencies with urgency and care.

“Groote Schuur’s Emergency Centre is one of the busiest in Africa, treating between 3 500 and 4 500 patients every month. Our patients and staff deserve a facility that is equipped to respond effectively when people need urgent care, whether they arrive with serious injuries, acute medical conditions or surgical emergencies. This investment is ultimately about the people of the Western Cape: ensuring they can access the quality, compassionate emergency care they need when it matters most.”

Donor support

The project was further supported by philanthropic donors working with the Groote Schuur Hospital Trust.

Their contributions funded essential clinical equipment, including digital mobile X-ray units, ventilators, ultrasound machines and transport monitors.

The improved centre also includes dedicated waiting areas for families and relatives, allowing loved ones to remain close to patients while receiving updates from healthcare teams.

A Patient Liaison Officer has also been appointed in response to feedback from patients and families about their experiences at the hospital’s former C15 Emergency Centre.

Nkosi Wakashe, whose mother received care at the former facility, said families often struggled to find information and support during difficult moments.

“During a very difficult time when my mother was admitted, one of the challenges we faced was not knowing where to go for information or who to approach with our questions. There was nobody available to guide us through the process or provide updates, which added to an already stressful situation for our family. When a loved one is in hospital, you are already worried and anxious and not having someone to answer your questions only make that experience harder.”

The Patient Liaison Officer will assist families by providing guidance, facilitating communication and helping relatives navigate the emergency care environment.

Patient-centred care

Groote Schuur Hospital chief executive officer Dr Shaheem de Vries said the project demonstrated what could be achieved through strong partnerships.

“This achievement reflects what can be accomplished through strong partnerships. We are grateful to the donors who have supported Groote Schuur Hospital through the Hospital Trust and helped equip the facility with technology that will directly benefit patients and healthcare teams.”

Reflecting on the significance of the development, De Vries said: “The opening of the improved Emergency and Trauma Centre is a landmark achievement for Groote Schuur Hospital and the communities we serve. Every aspect of the centre has been designed with patients at its core, from the clinical infrastructure and specialised equipment to the dedicated spaces that support emergency and trauma care.”

The upgraded centre is intended to strengthen emergency and trauma services while improving the experience of patients, families and healthcare workers.

Groote Schuur Hospital, one of South Africa’s leading tertiary hospitals, continues to invest in healthcare infrastructure, innovation and patient-centred care while serving as a centre of excellence in healthcare, teaching and research.

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