The department is owed approximately R145 million for services rendered at Pelonomi Hospital and Universitas Academic Hospital. These facilities frequently receive patients referred from Queen Mamohato Memorial Hospital in Lesotho for specialised treatment.

Free State Health spokesperson Mondli Mvambi said the arrangement between the two governments has been in place for some time.

“There is an existing relationship between the government of Lesotho and the government of South Africa through the department of health in the Free State.

“In the main, the areas of care we are contracted for are oncology services and trauma services. Existing debt between these two countries is estimated at R145 million, which the Free State department of health has an arrangement to frequently collect the debt to enhance its revenue for continued provision of healthcare.”

Mvambi said the demand for healthcare services by Lesotho citizens is placing a heavy burden on the province, particularly in border regions.

“The impact of demand for healthcare services by citizens of Lesotho is very high, weighing heavily on the Free State. The main affected areas are Thabo Mofutsanyane district near the border between Lesotho and South Africa, mainly impacting Ladybrand, Ficksburg, Fouriesburg, Clarens, and QwaQwa.” 

Movement across the border further contributes to the strain on healthcare services.

“We are aware of other people either moving in as job seekers or tourists. They also seek healthcare services ranging from primary care healthcare services up to tertiary healthcare services. The healthcare accord system does capture this and existing relationships as well.” 

The financial challenges come amid ongoing concerns about conditions at Pelonomi Hospital, which has been criticised for poor infrastructure, a significant orthopaedic surgery backlog, and limited capacity.

In early 2022, patients at the hospital raised concerns about long waiting times for surgery. A doctor, who spoke anonymously, confirmed a shortage of nurses, particularly after hours and on weekends, has contributed to delays in orthopaedic procedures.

The doctor said these staffing shortages continue to impact patient care, leading to frustration and prolonged suffering among those awaiting essential surgeries.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg

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