Gauteng Health Department Cuts Lawsuit Claims By R11 Billion Through New Accountability Drive

The Gauteng Department of Health has made a major breakthrough in cleaning up its legal and financial record. In just two years, the department has reduced its civil lawsuit claims by a staggering R11 billion dropping from R18 billion in 2023 to under R7 billion this financial year.

Turning Around A Troubled System

For years, Gauteng has topped the charts as the province facing the highest number of medical negligence claims. These lawsuits, often filed by patients and families seeking justice for poor treatment in public hospitals, have placed a heavy burden on provincial finances.

But Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko says the tide is finally turning. Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg, she credited a new “robust case management strategy” that focuses on accountability, better oversight, and faster resolution of claims.

“This significant achievement was driven by systematic removal of dormant matters, consistent application of public health defence, and pilot mediation,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.

Fewer Payouts, More Patient Care

The MEC explained that instead of cash payouts, the department is prioritising ongoing care for affected patients within the public health system. This approach not only prevents inflated settlement costs but also ensures that victims continue to receive medical attention.

By doing so, the department is saving millions in litigation fees and redirecting funds back into essential services. In a province where public hospitals have long struggled with overcrowding, staff shortages, and infrastructure decay, every rand saved makes a difference.

Public Reaction: Hope Mixed With Skepticism

On social media, reactions to the announcement were mixed. Some applauded the department’s progress as a long-overdue step toward restoring accountability. Others questioned whether the drop in claims reflected genuine improvement in patient care or just tighter control over the legal process.

A Johannesburg resident commented on X : “If they’re reducing claims by improving service, great. But if they’re just fighting patients in court, that’s another story.”

The Bigger Picture

Health litigation has become one of the biggest financial threats to provincial budgets across South Africa, with billions set aside annually to deal with malpractice suits. Gauteng’s R11 billion reduction could signal a model for other provinces to follow provided the reforms hold up and patient outcomes truly improve.

As Nkomo-Ralehoko put it, the goal is not just about balancing the books, but about “restoring trust in the public health system.”

If the province sustains this momentum, Gauteng could begin to shift from being South Africa’s litigation hotspot to an example of what responsible governance in healthcare can look like.

{Source:EWN}

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