Public outrage has erupted following revelations that nearly 35,000 patients are awaiting surgeries across Gauteng hospitals, with some facing life-threatening delays.
Breaking Down the Backlog
According to the latest figures reported at the end of January, some of the province’s largest hospitals are struggling with massive surgical backlogs:
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Steve Biko Academic Hospital: 6,700 patients
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Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital: 6,200 patients
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George Mukhari Academic Hospital: 5,300 patients
Gauteng Health Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Percy Selepe, confirmed the figures but noted that additional procedures have been conducted since then.
Efforts to Reduce the Backlog
Dr. Selepe stated that between March and April, over 25,000 elective surgeries and 20,000 emergency cases were performed. However, he acknowledged that new patients continuously enter the system, complicating efforts to clear the backlog.
“There is a reduction in some areas, but as we reduce these numbers, more patients come forward seeking help,” he explained.
Specialist Shortages and Complex Cases
The situation is worsened by a critical shortage of specialists, particularly for complex surgeries like knee and hip replacements (arthroplasty). These procedures require highly skilled surgeons, with each specialist only able to perform a maximum of four operations per day to avoid complications.
Additionally, many patients needing these surgeries are elderly with co-morbidities, requiring high-care or ICU beds—resources already strained by trauma and emergency cases.
Cancer Patients at Risk
Despite claims that cancer patients are prioritized, reports indicate severe delays. The Citizen highlighted a case of a skin cancer patient at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital who was told he may wait eight months for surgery, raising concerns about worsening conditions and survival rates.
Dr. Selepe responded that cancer treatment involves multiple approaches (surgery, chemotherapy, radiation) and promised to investigate the specific case.
Public Assurance and Future Plans
Facing mounting pressure, the Gauteng Health Department is partnering with private providers to assist with surgeries like cataract operations. Additionally, specialists from major hospitals are being deployed to regional facilities to expand access.
“We are working to bring services closer to the people,” Dr. Selepe said, urging patience from families awaiting critical surgeries.
What’s Next?
Health officials are expected to release updated figures in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, concerns persist over whether the province can keep pace with demand amid staff shortages, limited ICU beds, and an influx of patients from other provinces.
For now, thousands remain in painful limbo—hoping for relief before it’s too late.
