The Eastern Cape Department of Health has rejected claims that pregnant women and new mothers are currently being forced to sleep or give birth on hospital floors because of a shortage of beds.
The department also denied that women are being instructed to bring their own mattresses, saying there is no such policy, directive or practice in the provincial health system.
It said recent claims appear to rely on findings from the Commission for Gender Equality’s 2023/24 report, which was based largely on oversight visits conducted in October and November 2023.
The department said the findings should not be presented as a reflection of conditions in hospitals in October 2026.
It pointed to recent investments, saying it procured 1,774 hospital beds and 12,501 mattresses during the 2024/25 and 2025/26 financial years at a cost of about R45.9 million.
The department also said 534 doctors and 993 nurses were appointed between April 2025 and January 2026.
It further reported a significant reduction in maternal mortality between 2024 and 2025.
The department has called on anyone alleging that women are currently being forced to sleep or give birth on hospital floors to provide the facility, date and circumstances so the claims can be investigated.
It said historical challenges should not be presented as current conditions without verifiable evidence.
No tags for this post.
