In honour of World Cancer Day, globally observed on the 4thof February, Novartis, a leading global healthcare company, has donated a Breast Health Clinic to Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH). To reiterate the need for this clinic, nearly 84% of the South African population relies on the public healthcare sector[1], which needs significant support and investment from various entities in the Private Sector.
The formidable impact of breast cancer extends globally however, South Africa[2] faces significant challenges, including major disparities in effective breast cancer screening, equitable treatment and survival along ethnic and socio-economic lines.
This is according to Derrick Ellen who is the Head Public Affairs at Novartis South Africa. “This important contribution reflects Novartis’ commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure and improving access to quality healthcare for more patients in South Africa”, he adds.
CMJAH Head of Breast Surgical, Prof. Jenny Edge, expressed how the donation will contribute towards patient care. “We are honoured to accept the Breast Health Clinic which will support our mission to provide exemplary healthcare. This donation shows our stakeholders commitment to improving access to quality healthcare and elevating the importance of optimal health outcomes for all patients in South Africa”, Prof. Jenny Edge adds.
“As an organisation, we are dedicated to improving access to quality healthcare and essential medicines that address society’s major healthcare challenges. The effectiveness of medicines depends on the strength and efficiency of the healthcare system delivering them. Novartis is committed to supporting equitable healthcare access for all South Africans, aligning with the Presidential Health Compact’s goals of infrastructure development, skills and capability building, and data surveillance”, says Ellen.
The newly established clinic will provide comprehensive care in addressing breast health issues. With a focus on early detection and accurate diagnosis, the clinic aims to provide effective treatment for breast cancer, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life. Additionally, the clinic will potentially be used for important research that can inform policy and decision-making.
“We are hoping that this facility can help address critical space shortages, and support training and development, consultations, and will contribute towards data collection for the National Cancer Registry, ensuring the delivery of real impact where it’s needed most”, adds Ellen.
In April 2021, a devastating fire significantly damaged various sections of Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in the Southern Hemisphere,[3]severely affecting the hospital’s operations. Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital CEO, Gladys Bogoshi, details, “Due to major restrictions, breast cancer patients face long waiting times. Similarly, healthcare professionals struggle with shared consultation spaces and suboptimal treatment environments.”
“This situation has compromised the quality of care and patient dignity, leading to a reduction in follow-up visits, which in turn has contributed to advanced disease progression and increased mortality rates associated with breast cancer. Expanding the clinic is essential to meet the rising demand for services, early disease detection and to improve patient experiences”, adds Bogoshi.
The expanded facility will enhance the patient experience by providing private consultation spaces, ensuring confidentiality, and enabling prompt treatment interventions. By streamlining patient triage and referrals to appropriate care pathways, the clinic will contribute to improved management of breast health, ultimately facilitating earlier diagnosis and treatment.
“Collaborating with various stakeholders in such initiatives has the potential to deliver lasting value in the fight against breast cancer and aligns with the broader health reform objectives in South Africa”, Ellen concludes.
The Breast Health Clinic at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital anticipates servicing thousands of patients annually, providing access to the latest advancements in breast healthcare and treatment. Through this initiative, Novartis aims to make a meaningful impact on the ongoing battle against breast cancer while promoting the overall well-being of the community being serviced.
For media inquiries, please contact:
On behalf of Novartis South Africa
Lerato Motloung
Media Liaison
081-765-4120
Tabudi Madisha (Mr)
Manager: Communication and PR
Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital
Tel: +27 11 488 3737 Cell: +27 73 024 4693
**About Novartis:**
Novartis is an innovative medicines company. Every day, we work to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people’s lives so that patients, healthcare professionals and societies are empowered in the face of serious disease. Our medicines reach more than 250 million people worldwide.
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Novartis South Africa (Pty) Ltd, Magwa Crescent West, Waterfall City, Jukskei View, 2090. Co. Reg. No. 1946/020671/07. Tel. No. +27 (0) 11 347 6600.
Disclaimer: The presentation may include data on formulations, products, indications, and dosages not yet approved by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority. This information is not intended to be promoting nor recommending any formulation, indication, dosage, or other claim not covered in the approved Professional Information. Novartis South Africa (Pty) Ltd recommends the use of their products in accordance with the locally approved Professional Information. Views and opinions of speakers do not necessarily reflect those of Novartis.
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Content ID: FA-11350256 Approval date:February 3, 2025 Expiry Date: February 3, 2027
**About Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital:**
Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital is one of the ten central hospitals in South Africa which provide specialised tertiary and quaternary services. The facility is also one of four teaching hospitals for Wits Medical School, which trains many postgraduate health professionals from Africa and many first-world countries for experiential learning.
**About Breast Course 4 Nurses:**
The Breast Course for Nurses is an NPO aimed at equipping primary health care providers with the knowledge and skills required to manage patients with breast problems. Although the course is aimed at primary health care nurses, we encourage any medical professionals to attend[4]
[1] From the desk of the President – Monday, 20 May 2024 | The Presidency
[2] From Incidence to Intervention: A Comprehensive Look at Breast Cancer in South Africa
[3] Fire and no water: Johannesburg’s hospitals are in critical condition and need urgent help
[4] https://www.breastcourse4nurses.co.za/about-us
