COVID-19: At Intercare we put our patients first.
Intercare COVID-19 Helpline
(Open weekdays 08:00-16:00)
Dear Valued Patient
We have been guided by the Intercare values for nearly 20 years. These values are at the heart of our business and will guide us now as we face the uncertainty and impact brought about by the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
On the 5th of March 2020, the Minister of Health announced the first confirmed case of COVID- 19 in South Africa. Since then, a number of individuals have been diagnosed with the condition, the vast majority being travellers returning from countries with existing outbreaks. Most recently, community transmission of the virus has been confirmed.
The confirmation of COVID-19 cases in South Africa was arguably inevitable given the interconnectedness of the global economy. The increase in cases we have seen is also not unexpected given the rise in disease prevalence elsewhere around the world and the number of individuals returning to our country from these areas.
Intercare views the threat of COVID-19 seriously and while it does not ascribe to an alarmist approach, it would be irresponsible not to recognise the threat which a rapid, large-scale outbreak poses to South Africans, the healthcare system and the economy.
Ensuring safety and business continuity
We find ourselves at a juncture where the attitude and next steps of our government, business, healthcare providers and each individual citizen can and will determine the extent of COVID- 19 in our country. Each South African has a responsibility to do their part in not giving this virus a foothold in our communities.
Intercare is both a healthcare provider and corporate citizen, with a responsibility to its healthcare professionals, patients and team members. This is something we are acutely aware of and take very seriously. The safety of our people and you, our valued patients, is thus our greatest priority.
Official and medical guidance
Over the past few weeks Intercare has taken proactive steps to ensure our business is prepared to manage the risk of COVID-19 and to help protect the health and lives of our healthcare professionals, team members and patients.
We have worked hard on ensuring evidence-based and up-to-date protocols are in place in the facilities for the protection of healthcare professionals, team members and patients. Intercare’s Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) recommendations are based on WHO and NICD guidelines and are determined by the level of risk associated with a team member’s role, activities and area of operation within the facilities.
Information and communication are critical and Intercare continues to maintain strong links with government, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other private healthcare organisations. We are committed to keeping our patients and the public informed about latest developments and protocols relating to COVID-19.
For relevant information and updates click here.
Regards
Dr Hendrik Hanekom
Chief Executive: Intercare Group