Oshana clinics to stay open around the clock

Oshana governor Hofni Iipinge has announced that all 12 health centres in the region will introduce round-the-clock services seven days a week during the current financial year, although no exact start date has been confirmed.

During a tour of Oshakati Intermediate Hospital last week, Iipinge said the initiative aims to ease pressure on the hospital’s emergency department, which has been overwhelmed by patients, many of whom have conditions that could be treated at health centres.

Currently, only Okatana Health Centre provides 24-hour services.

The announcement followed a complaint by the hospital's matron for nursing services, Helvi Iimbangu, who pointed out that the casualty unit at the hospital is consistently overcrowded.

“We propose that at least the Oshakati Health Centre operate 24/7 to reduce congestion at the hospital. Oshakati Hospital is meant for referrals, yet even patients with mild symptoms are frequently waiting in the casualty area,” Iimbangu told the governor.

She expressed concerns about the delays in extending hours at the health centres, questioning whether they stem from budget constraints or staffing shortages. “This should not be a difficult change to implement, as the hospital's role is primarily for referrals,” she added.

Iipinge confirmed that his office had submitted a proposal to the region's deputy health director, and an agreement was reached to ensure health centres operate 24/7.

“If this plan does not come to fruition, I will follow up, but I want to assure you that the agreement is in place,” he said.

Room for growth

To further combat overcrowding, Iipinge announced that construction of the Ondangwa District Hospital will begin shortly. The 700-bed facility is projected to cost N$1.5 billion.

The governor noted that he had written to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah recommending the project, which has received approval to move forward.

“The Ondangwa Hospital was initially set to be completed in 2017; however, the reasons for its delay remain unclear. We have now completed feasibility studies and are in the advanced stages of appointing contractors. Funding is secured,” he said.

According to Iipinge, the new hospital is expected to absorb approximately half of the patient load currently managed by Oshakati Intermediate Hospital, which sees around one million patients annually. He believes this will help reduce waiting times and enhance access to care.

Personal care

Iipinge acknowledged the ongoing challenges at Oshakati Hospital, including shortages of chronic medication, inadequate shelter for pregnant women, and insufficient ambulances.

He committed to personally funding the clearing of approximately five hectares of bush behind the hospital to improve visibility and create space for a shelter for expectant mothers awaiting services.

“Currently, pregnant women face difficulties while waiting, despite the presence of unused land. The clearing will commence this week,” he said.

Iipinge urged health workers to maintain high service standards. “Together, let us build a healthcare system where every patient is treated with dignity, every healthcare worker is valued, every facility is respected, and every Namibian can confidently affirm that quality healthcare is not just a promise, but a reality experienced every day,” he said.

The governor also donated 13 mobile offices to the Oshana Police, which had been sitting unused at the hospital for about 15 years.

Oshana regional police commander Commissioner Andreas Shilelo welcomed the donation, highlighting the lack of proper shelter at many police stations. He stated that the mobile homes would be refurbished and sent to stations in need, including Uuvudhiya.