The Eastern Cape Department of Health has issued an urgent public advisory dated 30 December 2025, asking residents to avoid using hospital emergency units for minor ailments during the festive season. Instead, the department encourages communities to first visit local clinics and Community Health Centres (CHCs).
The statement comes as hospitals report a surge in non-urgent walk-ins, affecting care for critical emergencies.
Official Response
Hospitals in the Eastern Cape follow a standard triage system under the South African Triage Scale (SATS). This system prioritises treatment based on the severity of a patient’s condition, not on arrival time. As a result, those with minor or routine conditions face longer waits during peak demand periods.
The department has classified conditions as follows:
- Red (Immediate): Life-threatening (e.g. cardiac arrest, major burns)
- Orange (Very Urgent): Serious, not immediately fatal (e.g. chest pain, sudden shortness of breath)
- Yellow (Urgent): Can wait longer but still require medical attention
- Green/Blue (Routine): Minor conditions suitable for CHCs and clinics.
Community Impact
Local clinics and CHCs are fully equipped to handle routine medical needs, helping reduce hospital congestion and waiting times. The department also reminded the public that the 112 emergency line remains operational 24/7 throughout the holiday period.
“Patients are prioritised according to the severity of their condition, not by arrival time,” the statement reads. “We appeal for cooperation, patience, and responsible use of health services to help save lives.”
