The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has appealed to the public to help reduce trauma cases at its Emergency Centres (ECs) this festive season
According to the latest data from the departments Health
Emergency Centre Trauma Information System (HECTIS), there has been an increase
in the total patient presentations to ECs, trauma and non-trauma cases.
The data compared trauma and non-trauma patient numbers for
2023 and 2024 from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day. The report consolidates
information from emergency centres (ECs) across the Western Cape.
Total patient presentations to ECs increased from 11 262 in
2023 to 11 627 in 2024. Trauma-related presentations rose from 3 639 cases in
2023 to 3 853 cases in 2024, marking a concerning increase of 214 cases
(+5.9%).
Non-trauma cases also saw an increase, rising from 7 375 in
2023 to 7 484 in 2024, a difference of 109 cases (+1.5%).
The department urged the public to take the necesarry steps
to protect themselves and their loved ones during this time:
‘’The festive season is a time of joy and togetherness, yet
it often brings an increase in preventable trauma cases. Our Western Cape
healthcare workers are on the frontlines, dedicating themselves tirelessly to
care for those in need. We appeal to our residents and visitors to work with us
to ease their burden and ensure a safer festive season for all,’’ said Dwayne
Evans, Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness spokesperson.
‘’Reducing trauma is not just a healthcare priority; it's a
shared responsibility. By being mindful and caring, we can prevent unnecessary
harm and make this festive season joyful and safe for all. We acknowledge the
sacrifices made by our healthcare workers and thank them for their unwavering
commitment. This festive season, let's honour their efforts by making choices
that prioritise our safety and well-being. Every small act of caution is an act
of care - for yourself, your family, and your community. Together, we can make
this season safer and more enjoyable for everyone,’’ he added.
The provincial department provided tips on how one can
reduce ECs from being crowded:
·
Avoid alcohol-related incidents: Alcohol
consumption often plays a role in road accidents, falls, and violence. Drink
responsibly, and encourage others to do the same. Simple choices can prevent
life-changing injuries.
·
Don't drink and drive, or drink and walk: Both
can be fatal to yourselves and your loved ones.
·
Practice road safety: Follow speed limits,
avoid distractions, and ensure all passengers wear seatbelts. For motorcyclists
and cyclists, helmets save lives. Let's make our roads safer for everyone.
·
Be visible as a pedestrian: Wear reflective or
light-coloured clothing, especially when walking at night. This precaution can
save lives.
·
Celebrate peacefully: The festive season can
bring stress, but it's also a time to spread love and kindness. Let's resolve
conflicts calmly and avoid violence in any form.
·
Supervise children: Ensure children are safe
around pools, fires, and in busy public spaces. Small actions can prevent
devastating accidents.
·
Please don't visit the EC for non-emergency or
non-urgent reasons: This helps to ensure that critical resources are available
for those in urgent need.
Done By: Mitchum George
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