By REGINALD KANYANE
North West MEC of Health department, Dr Magome Masike confirmed that they have cancelled the contract with the Gupta-linked company, Mediosa. Masike said the service of Mediosa was procured without following the correct procurement procedures.
“We have identified areas of intervention and begun to implement intervention plans in those identified areas. The areas of intervention include financial management particularly to deal with irregular expenditure and accruals.
“Supply Chain Management, which is characterised by irregular supply chain and material deviation from procurement practices have been identified as carrying fiscal risks which end up draining the resources of the Department,” he said.
Masike further said they will continue to work together with the administrator to address the challenges faced by the employees at administration level in the provincial office. He said they will also address lack of service delivery in the districts.
“Contract managed, particularly major contracts like Buthelezi EMS and Mediosa have also been identified as problem area that needs immediate intervention.
“We have revised the scope of work of private ambulance providers, Buthelezi EMS and High Care EMS. The two service providers will now inter-facility transfers to allow state ambulances to focus on emergencies,” Masike said.
The Head of Department (HoD), Dr Thabo Lekalakala was suspended after he allegedly pre-paid the Mediosa Mobile Clinic company R30m upfront before it could execute any service.
The beleaguered company also funded Lekalakala and his wife’s international trip. The company was expected to render health services at far-flung areas.
Another R180m was supposed to be paid to the company over the years.
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