BY REGINALD KANYANE

MEC for health, Dr Magome Masike is expected to officially open Cath Lab at Ferncrest in Rustenburg on Friday.

 Health department spokesperson, Tebogo Lekgethewane said a catheterization laboratory or cath lab is an examination room in a hospital or clinic with diagnostic imaging equipment. He said the laboratory was used to visualise the arteries of the heart and the chambers of the heart and treat any stenosis or abnormality found.

“Few years ago, Netcare identified the need for a dedicated Cath Lab and Cardio thoracic surgery to cater for the needs of people in the North West province. Till then all patients needing Coronary Angiography and stent insertions were referred to hospitals in Johannesburg and Pretoria. Now this service can be provided in Rustenburg within the province,” Lekgethwane said.

He further added that Netcare applied to the health department for a licence of a Cath Lab, Cardio Thoracic theatre, additional ICU, High Care and General beds back in 2012.

“Upon granting of the licence, Netcare embarked on a massive construction project to facilitate the new additions. The facility was inspected by the Department of Health and has been given the green light to operate,” he said.

-TDN

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