Media statements

On Thursday 12 March 2009, the Botshabelo community in the Free State become one of the first beneficiaries of four Primary Healthcare Telemedicine Workstations that will be implemented at rural hospitals in conjunction with the Free State Department of Health.

The telemedicine workstation was developed by the Stellenbosch University and the Medical Research Council and funded by the Innovation Fund, an initiative of the Department of Science and Technology.

The partnership between the MTN SA Foundation and the Medical Research Council has realized the provision of real time healthcare services through the innovative use of the Telemedicine Workstation to the rural and outlying communities of South Africa.

On the occasion of the launch, the keynote speaker, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, Mr. Derek Hanekom emphasised the role of science and technology in assisting service departments to be able to work faster and smarter.  He highlighted the need to look at alternative ways to provide specialist care and other medical interventions closer to the home of the patients by “bringing the doctor closer to the patient”.

The President of the Medical Research Council, Prof. Tony Mbewu said: “Telemedicine technology allows patients to receive comprehensive care at a local clinic or hospital instead of being referred to a tertiary hospital with the appropriate services. This reduces the cost of unnecessary patient transfers and saves the patient valuable time and expenses when away from work or their family.”

The MTN SA Foundation is focused on promoting sustainable and healthy lifestyles in communities and feels passionate about supporting an initiative that is designed to enhance the quality of life of South Africans.

The Chief Corporate Services Officer of MTN SA, Mr. Zolisa Masiza said: “This partnership shows how effectively the government and the private sector can work together to solve the technical constraints that have negatively impacted on the service delivery of the healthcare sector”.

The MTN SA Foundation plays a key role in the project by committing the funds and bandwidth required to assist with the telemedicine project.

This collaboration is an example of government, research institutions and the private sector working together for the mutual benefit of all South Africans.

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