Gauteng, South Africa’s most populous province with approximately 16 million residents, has introduced a cutting-edge Integrated Patient Queue Management System (IPQMS) to enhance the efficiency of public healthcare services. This move is part of the provincial government’s broader mission to modernise healthcare delivery through innovative eHealth solutions.
Revolutionising Patient Experience
The IPQMS was officially launched this week at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital by Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness. This advanced system is designed to streamline patient flow, reduce waiting times, and improve the overall experience for those accessing public healthcare facilities.
According to a statement by the Department of Health, the IPQMS will ensure effective management of patient numbers, with real-time updates available to patients on their progress within the queue. The system also includes features such as appointment booking, biometric identification, and digital ticketing, which work together to enhance operational efficiency.
Additionally, the IPQMS sends SMS reminders for upcoming appointments and generates real-time reports to help hospitals monitor and optimise their performance.
“This system represents a significant step towards improving operational efficiency and ensuring patients receive timely, high-quality care,” the department noted.
Embracing a Digital Future
The queue management initiative is part of a broader eHealth programme aimed at digitising Gauteng’s 37 public hospitals. Earlier this year, the provincial health department revealed plans to digitise and back-scan 800 million patient records within the next three years. This ambitious project seeks to eliminate reliance on paper-based systems and unlock substantial benefits for the public healthcare system.
In May, MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko highlighted the transformative potential of these digital initiatives, noting that hospitals could significantly reduce operational costs, minimise the time spent searching for patient files, and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.
“Digitising patient records will not only enhance data security but also improve the accuracy and accessibility of medical information. This is essential for creating a more efficient and effective healthcare system,” she explained.
Cloud-Powered Solutions
The eHealth programme leverages cloud technology to securely store and manage medical records. By centralising this information, the system ensures seamless access for healthcare professionals while safeguarding patient privacy. The department believes this innovation will strengthen data integrity and reduce errors associated with traditional record-keeping methods.
The introduction of the IPQMS and other eHealth initiatives demonstrates Gauteng’s commitment to building a modern healthcare infrastructure. By integrating digital tools and processes, the province will boost service delivery, cut costs, and ultimately improve the quality of care for its residents.
