Cross-Boarder Rescue, Ill SA Man Airlifted To Limpopo Hospital

By Health Reporter

A South African entrepreneur, who fell ill while attending an exhibition in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, has been airlifted to a hospital in Limpopo, South Africa, after the provincial Department of Health repatriated him due to logistical challenges in providing sufficient medical care.

Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba and Limpopo Department of Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego received the man after he was airlifted from Beitbridge border near Musina. According to Ramathuba, the provincial executive learned of the emergency and swiftly responded to the request for assistance.

Due to logistical difficulties, the Department of Health had to arrange for a private ambulance to transport the patient from Bulawayo to Beitbridge, where he was airlifted to Polokwane Provincial Hospital. Ramathuba explained that they were unable to send an ambulance into Zimbabwe, and even attempted to get the army involved, but the private ambulance proved to be the quickest option.

The patient’s condition required medical attention that was not readily available in Zimbabwe, including potential blood transfusions and dialysis. Ramathuba expressed gratitude to the Department of Health staff who worked tirelessly to facilitate the patient’s repatriation, including those who were off-duty.

*Poor state of Zimbabwe healthcare service. pic credit by NBC News*

Ramathuba spoke to the patient and his family, urging the medical team to continue providing excellent care. “Health can affect anyone, it doesn’t matter who you are,” she said. “What’s important is how those given the responsibility to assist respond urgently and provide care.”

The Premier’s office had previously faced criticism for its handling of a similar case in 2022, when Ramathuba, then the provincial health MEC, called for a hospital to charge a Zimbabwean woman for treatment before discharging her. Despite backlash, Ramathuba stood by her statement, emphasizing her responsibility to ensure the health and well-being of her province’s residents.

In this instance, however, Ramathuba’s office worked swiftly to repatriate the South African citizen, demonstrating a commitment to providing medical care to those in need, regardless of their nationality. The patient is currently receiving treatment at Polokwane Provincial Hospital, and Ramathuba assured that he is in safe hands. “He’s alive, he has arrived in Polokwane, he’s in safe hands,” she said.