By Agreement Mabunda
NKOWANKOWA-The Limpopo Health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba calls on members of the public to stop circulating images of a known Epileptic patient who had an episode of seizures while waiting to collect chronic medication at a pharmacy in Letaba hospital.
“It is unfortunate that when the patient started experiencing the seizure episode which included temporary abnormalities in muscle movements meaning stiffness, twitching and limpness, while on the floor, a known mental healthcare user who was also in the queue to collect his chronic medications, started taking pictures. These are the pictures circulating all over with fabricated stories” MEC Ramathuba said
According to the Limpopo Department of Health statement, the pharmacists were quick to respond and call the casualty nurses who came with the doctor and stabilized the patient by stopping the seizures and admitting the patient who was later discharged.
It is reported that the patient came alone with no escort, hence the hospital informed the father who unfortunately was held up and couldn’t come, however confirmed that these episodes happened so often.
However, the department says they will investigate why the patient is experiencing constant seizure
“As the department, we are more worried about the condition of our patient which can simply mean it’s probably not properly controlled and more investigations must be done because we don’t expect well-controlled epileptic patients who comply with medication to have more frequent seizures as confirmed by the father. We are equally disturbed by the delinquents who masqueraded themselves as journalists, disregarding the patient’s basic human rights and circulating pictures in an uncompromising position. We encourage a collective focus on upholding patient dignity, respect, and prompt medical intervention in all circumstances” said Dr Ramathuba
