New Ladismith Clinic to be completed in May

The new Ladismith Clinic is currently under construction to replace the old one located at Ladismith Alan Blyth Hospital in the town. Construction of this R18m facility began in January 2022 and the facility is expected to be complete in May 2023.

The existing clinic is often overcrowded, inadequate for the current patient load, and located far from the community that needs it most. In addition, patient flow and infection control are ongoing challenges.

The new Ladismith Clinic will provide a comprehensive health service closer to the targeted community. Empowerment components of the project include life skills training and formal

technical training for EPWP participants employed on the project by a Construction Education and Training (CETA )-accredited training service provider.

This beautiful plaster and painted 560m² building conforms to the energy efficiency requirements of South African National Standard 10400 and is in line with the Western Cape Government’s ecological infrastructure priorities. The robust finishes and detailing support the long-term sustainability of the facility by reducing the need for recurrent maintenance.

The new clinic’s simple linear design has two main wings on either side of the main waiting area, with clear visual lines to all public areas of the site. Clerestory windows above the main waiting area provide ample natural light, improving both the patient experience and the staff’s ability to provide the required level of care. In addition, LED (lightemitting diode) lighting will be installed throughout the clinic, which is both an energy-saving choice, and will enhance the care environment.

A detailed colour scheme to differentiate the services offered has also been incorporated in the design, making them easily identifiable for a wide range of visitors. The clinic will be handed over to the Western Cape Department of Health upon completion.