Last Tuesday 21 October 2025, members of the Atlantis community held a peaceful protest at the Wesfleur Hospital, organised by the Atlantis Community Health Organization (ACHO). They once again raised ongoing service delivery concerns with the hospital senior staff and newly elected board.
This included a copy of a memorandum handed over to the former City of Cape Town Mayoral Member for Health. The well-coordinated demonstration was described as productive. One of the members said the meeting was “cordial, with management committing to review the issues raised and engage further.” The Western Cape Department of Welness and Health said in a statement earlier this month they are making steady progress in improving the quality of healthcare services, with noticeable gains in patient satisfaction and increasing community engagement.
Stepping into the role last month, Dr. Meyer Swanepoel brings renewed energy and insight as the newly appointed Medical Services Manager. Complementing this is the recently appointed Hospital Board, who plays a vital role in bridging the gap between the hospital and the community, ensuring that public voices are heard and actively shape healthcare planning and service improvements. “Although still in its early stages, we have already made meaningful progress in fulfilling our mandate. Every board member is deeply committed to serving the communities of Atlantis, Mamre, Pella, and the surrounding areas,” says Joy Davids, Chairperson of the Board. “We understand, often from personal experience, the historical and ongoing challenges these communities face, and that shared understanding strengthens our ability to advocate effectively on their behalf,” she added.Infrastructure upgrades are also planned to address current challenges and improve service delivery at the hospital. This includes the records room, outpatient reception, consulting rooms, public ablutions, sub-waiting area, and general outpatient maintenance.
According to a department spokesperson, these collaborative efforts are already producing measurable results. Patient satisfaction has steadily increased over the past three years, from 54% in 2022 to 63% in 2023, and reached 75% in 2024.
The department claims complaints have also significantly decreased. While 104 complaints were logged between 2022 and 2024, only 16 complaints have been recorded since April 2025, signalling a notable shift in service quality and public confidence in the facility. On the question on how they plan to address day-to-day frontline issues that has been plaguing the community for decades, the department said it is still too early in their tenure for the new management to commit to specific reforms, but the board and management are committed to creating a healthcare environment that prioritises dignity, responsiveness, and quality service. “We are working closely with our teams, community partners, and stakeholders to strengthen service delivery and ensure staff are equipped to provide reliable, person-centred care,” says Zee Brickles, Director for the Southern Western Sub-structures. The Board also meets regularly with management to identify challenges, set priorities, and co-develop solutions.
