Statement on Health Workers Petition Asking for Action on Dr Rath Health Foundation

Given government's proven commitment to a comprehensive HIV and Aids programme and the progress made in this regard in the Western Cape, it is regrettable that the health workers concerned did not see fit to discuss their concerns about the Dr Rath Health Foundation with me or the Head of my Department prior to drawing up a petition.

I also find it unfortunate that they chose to approach such a serious matter by setting at short notice a one-sided deadline for action. I nevertheless agreed to meet the group this week to discuss their concerns and explain to them that the Medicines Control Council (MCC) is already conducting an investigation into the Foundation. This was personally confirmed to me by the Registrar of the MCC, Dr Zokufa. The MCC being the proper authority to investigate the concerns raised in the petition. A report in this regard is expected in three weeks' time.

Any contention that the provincial government is not fully committed to provide a comprehensive HIV and AIDS programme and to promote its benefits to patients by the petitioners is therefore disingenuous. As government we are clear on the challenges we face in confronting the HIV and Aids pandemic in our province and we do not shy away from difficult decisions. We also understand and appreciate the critical role played by our health workers and their responsibilities in providing this essential service.

It is clearly the responsibility of our health workers who interact with HIV and Aids patients on a daily basis to educate patients about the best possible treatment. This responsibility extends to the promotion of prevention programmes. In providing this comprehensive service they enjoy the full support of government and various non-profit organisations, all of whom share the belief that antiretroviral (ART) prolongs life and improves the quality of life of people with HIV.

Currently 11 147 patients are on ART at 37 sites throughout our province. On average 700 new patients per month join our treatment programme in the Western Cape. In this financial year a total of R167 million from national and provincial funds will be spent on our comprehensive HIV and Aids programme. Provincial Health has also requested additional funds for this purpose from national government and aim to provide Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) to 400 000 people over the next year.