Capricorn FM writes that the South African Medical Association Trade Union in Limpopo says while they understand that the budget tabled by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is still at proposal stage, the implementation of the priorities listed in the budget will be the ultimate test for government.

SAMATU’s Limpopo Treasurer Dr Rebone Nemaungane has expressed relief at Godongwana’s announcement that R28.9 billion will be added to the healthcare budget to keep about 9 300 healthcare workers in hospitals and clinics. Godongwana also indicated that the added amount will also be used to employ 800 post-community service doctors and to ensure that pharmacies do not run out of medicines.

Nemaungane, who was speaking on Capricorn Talk last night, said they often see gaps between the money that’s allocated and the services the patients receive. She says among the priorities should be the improvement of infrastructure as well as the permanent hire of healthcare professionals because public healthcare services in Limpopo are hanging by a thread.

by  Modikwa Makgoba