The Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape welcomes the launch of the Bed Bureau by the Western Cape Department of Health, the first of its kind in the country. The announcement was made at the opening of the new Brakengate Intermediate Care Facility, which will avail 300 additional beds in the province in a concerted effort to ramp up the provincial government’s response to Covid-19.
The Bed-Bureau will enable administrators to ascertain in real-time exactly where and what type of beds are available, anywhere in the province, in order to provide efficient services to residents infected and who choose to quarantine or isolate in public facilities.
MPP Wendy Philander said: “Models show that the Western Cape is heading towards its peak of infections which also means more people may require in-hospital services. The launch of the Bed Bureau is especially welcomed at this stage in prevention of sending patients from pillar to post when they seek care.”
The field hospitals such as the Hospital of Hope and the Brackengate facility provide relief to acute health facilities, but also establish a nuanced approach to care. The Bed Bureau aims to integrate bed capacity for maximum efficiency from healthcare facilities.
MPP Wendy Philander adds: “According to the provincial Department of Transport and Public Works, 182 facilities are ready for activation which can provide over 9 500 beds. The bureau could not be launched at a better time – should the need for activation of these facilities arise, the bureau will be enable the health department to act swiftly.
I further encourage other provinces to take part in setting up their own bed bureaus. The pandemic is a nationwide concern, which means we need to work together and share best practices.”
The Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape encourages residents to make use of public quarantine facilities if they are unable to self-isolate. These facilities are comfortable and also helps in limiting the spread. As we approach the peak, it is important that we realise limiting the spread is everyone’s responsibly.
