Groote Schuur Hospital receives R200m upgrade to strengthen emergency care
Groote Schuur Hospital receives R200m upgrade to strengthen emergency care. Groote Schuur Hospital’s Emergency and Trauma Centre has received an upgrade valued at approximately R200 million from the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, strengthening the facility ahead of the festive season.
The investment comes as the hospital’s emergency and trauma units manage high volumes of patients, including cases linked to violence, alcohol use and road accidents.
The upgraded facility includes modern clinical infrastructure, advanced medical technology, dedicated trauma treatment areas and enhanced resuscitation facilities.
The project has also received support from philanthropic donors through the Groote Schuur Hospital Trust. Their contributions funded clinical equipment for the Emergency and Trauma Centre, including digital mobile X-ray units, ventilators, ultrasound machines and transport monitors.
Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness Mireille Wenger said the investment would strengthen the hospital’s ability to respond to emergencies.
“Groote Schuur’s Emergency Centre is one of the busiest in Africa, treating between 3,500 and 4,500 patients every month,” Wenger said.
The minister said the upgraded facility would support patients arriving with serious injuries, acute medical conditions and surgical emergencies.
The centre has also introduced dedicated family and relative waiting areas, allowing relatives to remain close while receiving updates from healthcare teams.
A dedicated patient liaison officer has been introduced in response to feedback from patients and families. The role will assist families by providing guidance, facilitating communication and helping relatives navigate the emergency care environment.
Dr Shaheem de Vries, Groote Schuur Hospital CEO, said the project reflected the hospital’s focus on patient-centred care and supporting families.
“We are grateful to the donors who have supported Groote Schuur Hospital through the Hospital Trust and helped equip the facility with technology that will directly benefit patients and healthcare teams,” De Vries said.
He added that the centre had been designed around patients, including its clinical infrastructure, specialised equipment and dedicated spaces for emergency and trauma care.
The upgrade provides Groote Schuur’s emergency services with expanded infrastructure and equipment as the hospital prepares to manage demand during the festive season.
