New lab a boost for Paarl
2011-06-15
THE newly constructed Forensic Pathology Laboratory in Paarl was officially opened and complements the expansion of health facilities in the Winelands, with the official opening of the Emergency Unit at Paarl Hospital last year and the Community Health Centre (upgraded TC Newman Day Hospital) to be opened later this year. Built at a cost of R17 million, the new forensic facility was tailor-built for the particular needs of the local community. In his address after opening the facility, Health Minister Theuns Botha said the Western Cape provincial government has prioritised the expansion of facilities to be situated closer to communities. “The location of this laboratory was carefully selected to be accessible for the people of Paarl East and surrounding areas. “Its proximity to Paarl Hospital, which is also undergoing significant upgrades at present, will enhance and strengthen the quality of health services to the people of the Winelands.” The new facility has a larger waiting area and much improved storage facilities, as well as a more spacious dissection area with upgraded technological equipment. Interview facilities have been designed to offer more privacy. To date the Provincial Department of Transport and Public Works has completed five Forensic Pathology Laboratories (FPLs) in the Western Cape - at Hermanus, George, Malmesbury, Worcester and Paarl. A further FPL is under construction in Beaufort West, while similar laboratories at Groote Schuur Hospital to replace the Salt River Mortuary and in Riversdale are in the planning stages. The facility is open from 07:30 to 16:00 on weekdays and has an after hours service. The laboratory can be contacted on 021 862 2047/7821, fax 021 862 8295 and after hours on 078 330 3667. * When a person passes away from unnatural causes, the remains must be identified by a relative or friend (at the facility) who brings his own identity document and the deceased’s identity document. In the case of sudden and unexpected death, the relative should bring all medical documentation (e.g. a baby’s clinic card).
More
News
|
