Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital's Burn Unit Boasts Modern Upgrade for Enhanced Patient Care

In a significant boost to burn care in South Africa, the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH) has inaugurated a new extension to the Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit. A heartfelt ceremony saw Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, together with Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits University, Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, and representatives from the Roy McAlpine Foundation, unveil the modernized facilities that promise to advance the care for burn victims significantly.

Established 33 years ago, the hospital’s burns unit has been at the front line of treating severe burn injuries, admitting upwards of 30,000 patients, and performing over 40,000 burn-related surgeries. This track record of service highlights the unit’s critical role in managing one of the most challenging medical emergencies.

The renovation includes the addition of 12 state-of-the-art ICU beds, a new operating theatre aimed at minimizing the delays in critical surgical interventions, and a skin substitute laboratory that brings research and practice together to improve patient outcomes. Newly incorporated features like a larger outpatient service area and specialized spaces for various therapies such as occupational, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and recreational activities are instrumental in providing comprehensive care that transcends immediate medical treatment.

The testament to the impact of these upgrades comes in the form of patient experiences. Nontleko Sithole's remarkable recovery after a tragic fire epitomizes the unit's commitment to restoring health and dignity. Similarly, Bafana Alex Ntombela's journey through recovery reflects the unit's exceptional care and patient support.

As the Wits Roy McAlpine Burns Unit moves forward, it is set to recruit additional specialists and nursing staff to bolster its capacity in addressing the increasing demand for healthcare, aligning with the Gauteng Department of Health's efforts to augment infrastructure in anticipation of the National Health Insurance implementation. This milestone reaffirms not just the local but also the regional commitment to offering high-caliber burns services across the wider Southern African Development Community.

With this critical upgrade, CHBAH takes a pivotal step in consolidating its standing as one of the leading burn treatment centers in Africa, characterized by cutting-edge treatment, specialist training, and compassionate patient care.