GEORGE NEWS - Ongoing difficulties with MTN’s mobile signal and internet connectivity inside the new Mediclinic George premises are causing mounting frustration among doctors, staff, patients and visitors. The hospital moved into its new premises in April.
The situation is affecting workflow as systems are largely internet-based and reliable communication is needed for effective daily functioning. Visitors and patients have also raised their concerns about being unable to stay connected.
According to those affected, their complaints have apparently been escalated on several occasions, but the progress in addressing the issue has been slow. There is apparently also uncertainty about whose responsibility it is to provide a solution.
The hospital, however, says infrastructure to support multi-network coverage is in place. “The hospital was designed to support a multi-network indoor coverage environment typical of a complex healthcare facility. This includes a purpose-built in-building distributed antenna system that enables mobile network coverage from multiple operators. While this infrastructure is in place, full-service availability depends on co-ordination and integration with mobile network operators,” said Mediclinic.
“We are actively engaging the relevant service provider, and the dedicated technical teams are working with the operators to resolve the remaining coverage constraints as a priority. We apologise for any inconvenience to our community and will continue to pursue all avenues to resolve it,” the statement read.
MTN confirmed that indoor signal levels at the facility are currently insufficient to provide a consistent mobile and data experience throughout the building. This was established through independent on-site testing.
The issue has been under active assessment since it was escalated in February.
“A number of structural and access-related constraints have influenced the available solutions. MTN initially proposed in-building coverage enhancements; however, this option was not approved as the building had already been completed. As a result, we are working closely with Mediclinic to explore alternative solutions, including the potential use of existing in-building infrastructure where feasible.”
MTN said its technical teams continue to actively evaluate the most effective and sustainable options to improve coverage at the site. It was not able to give an implementation timeline, but promised to provide updates as soon as a solution was finalised.
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