Hermanus Provincial Hospital is facing public backlash following concerns raised by a local activist regarding inadequate staffing during the night shift. The allegations center on a single administrative clerk who reportedly takes prolonged breaks, causing delays for patients.
Marius Combrink brought these issues to light on social media after rushing a pregnant relative to the facility in the early morning hours of Monday, September 21, 2026. Upon arrival at approximately 4 am, Combrink noted that several people were already waiting. After waiting for thirty minutes without assistance, he inquired about the clerk's whereabouts, learning from other patients that some had been waiting for hours.
Combrink reported that the clerk departed and posted a notice stating his return time would be 3:25 am; however, by 4:25 am, no one was available to handle patient files. He subsequently sought help from security personnel, but out of about six guards present, none were able or willing to provide information about the clerk's location.
According to Combrink, residents have voiced complaints about insufficient services and staff shortages at the hospital for several years. He expressed alarm that having only one clerk available during the night shift could lead to fatal outcomes during the two to three hours the clerk spends on extended breaks. He mentioned hearing accounts of deaths at the hospital while patients awaited aid, vowing to continue advocating against the poor service until the national government intervenes.
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness acknowledged the social media post. A spokesperson for the department, Phiwe Phillips, confirmed that hospital management has started an internal investigation to confirm the post's validity and determine the details surrounding the claims. Phillips assured the public that appropriate measures would be taken once the review concludes, reiterating the department's commitment to delivering 'respectful, patient-centred care' and addressing concerns swiftly.