GEORGE NEWS - Judged by the reaction of many patients at the new Thembalethu Day Clinic, creature comfort is more important than aesthetics. 

Before its official opening on Monday 14 May, much was made of the new clinic's architectural design, which incorporates a lot of natural light and air. But, when Idinga asked on its Facebook page for people's comments, the verdict was clear: "The new clinic is freezing inside."

Construction on the clinic started in 2016 and it was supposed to be operational by February, but the opening was delayed due to the renovation of the Nelson Mandela Boulevard. According to the department, the building project cost R62-million.

The new clinic will render the full package of primary health care services with additional rehabilitation services. The layout of the new facility will allow for better patient flow. The clinic will have the same staff component as the previous facility and no additional staff will be employed at this stage. The facility has 18 consultation rooms and a waiting room for each area.

There is no disputing that, on entering the area with its impressive volume and height and its bright mosaic mural, one gets a pleasant and surprising welcome. And though there were comments that people still wait in long queues, others have applauded the services, saying much has improved.

The waiting area inside the clinic is light and airy - maybe too airy, according to some patients. Photo: Alida De Beer

Nadia Ferreira, Western Cape Department of Health communications officer, says it is too early to tell what needs to be improved or which procedures are not going smoothly. 

They will be monitoring this on an ongoing basis.

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