Former Broadcaster Exposes Disturbing Conditions at Helen Joseph Hospital
Former broadcaster Tom London has shed light on what he describes as “atrocious” conditions at the Helen Joseph Hospital in Johannesburg following a two-week stay as a patient.
His detailed account, shared in a series of Facebook videos titled “Welcome to Helen Joseph Circus Hospital,” has sparked widespread public outrage over the state of the facility and its treatment of patients.
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A Shocking Experience
According to TimesLive, Tom London, who was admitted to the hospital after developing severe respiratory issues, described the conditions as unbearable.
“The toilets were disgusting, and there were no proper bathing facilities. I had to wash myself with a bucket at 4 a.m.,” he said, painting a grim picture of the situation.
The broadcaster bemoaned how doctors do not treat patients with respect.
“There is no dignity, and the doctors don’t treat anyone with respect. Patients are treated like cockroaches off the streets.”
Medical Negligence and Lack of Basic Care
London shared harrowing details of his time at the hospital, including spending three days in the casualty ward, during which he slept on the floor at one point.
His most distressing moment came when he lost control of his bowels and was left lying in his own waste for an entire day.
“I complained and was eventually moved to another ward, but the staff never explained what was happening to me,” London said.
He also expressed frustration over the lack of consistent medical attention.
“There were times when I didn’t receive my medication or I didn’t see a doctor for 48 hours. This is not how patients should be treated.”
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Leaving the Hospital and Social Media Outrage
After enduring these conditions, London decided to leave the hospital, even though he had not yet completed his treatment. A crowdfunding campaign organized by his fans raised enough money for him to be treated at Morningside Hospital, a private facility.
“I refused to be treated like a cockroach any longer,” he declared.
London’s exposé has drawn widespread attention on social media, with many South Africans condemning the conditions at Helen Joseph Hospital. His harrowing experience has sparked outrage over the state of public healthcare.
Here are some of the reactions;
@zamazamz:
Yaz it is shocking how government cares more for jails than hospitals . Our jail are more like hotels meanwhile our hospital state us devastating. U must check out osindisweni hospital in kzn
@umfazi_wephapha:
Please continue to expose them 👏🏽…We need cameras at these hospitals. Or record these doctors