Following the relocation of specialist clinics from Princess Marina Hospital to Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital on Monday, a total of 328 patients have already been attended to by various specialists. This early figure shows that services remain accessible and functional despite the major operational shift. Patients have continued to receive scheduled care without significant delays. Clinical teams have maintained service continuity while adjusting to new facilities and workflows. The transition reflects careful planning aimed at minimizing disruption to patient care.
The relocation forms part of a phased strategy to strengthen specialist healthcare delivery within the public health system. Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital is positioned to support advanced clinical services while also expanding training and academic functions. Improved infrastructure and centralized specialist units are expected to enhance coordination of care. Hospital systems were aligned ahead of the move to ensure patient records and referrals remained intact. These preparations have contributed to a stable start during the first days of operation.
Earlier this afternoon, the Minister of Health Hon. Dr Stephen Modise visited the hospital to assess progress following the relocation. The hospital management team briefed the Minister on operational performance and patient flow since the move began. They reported that the transition was progressing well and that clinics were functioning as expected. Dr Modise also engaged directly with staff members who shared their experiences from the initial phase. Patients were equally able to voice their feedback during the visit.
The Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved so far and acknowledged the efforts of healthcare workers managing the transition. He assured both staff and patients of his full support throughout the relocation process. His engagement highlighted the importance of leadership visibility during health system changes. Continued monitoring and support were emphasized as critical to sustaining service quality. The visit reinforced government commitment to maintaining uninterrupted specialist care.
Several specialist clinics have already completed phase one of the relocation to Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital. These include Gastroenterology, Nephrology, Neurology, Hepatology, Rheumatology, Dermatology, Pulmonology and Cardiology. These clinics manage complex and long term conditions that require consistent specialist oversight. Ensuring their smooth transfer was a priority for health authorities. Their operational status indicates readiness for further phases of the relocation.
Hospital management reported that early indicators point to improved patient flow and better coordination among specialist teams. Staff adaptation has been supported through structured scheduling and internal communication systems. Patients have been guided through new service points to reduce confusion. The teaching hospital environment also offers opportunities for integrated care and specialist collaboration. These developments support the hospital’s role as a central hub for advanced healthcare delivery.
The successful treatment of 328 patients within days of the relocation demonstrates effective coordination and execution. Continued focus will remain on patient safety, service efficiency and staff support as the process advances. Additional clinics are expected to relocate in subsequent phases. Each phase will be assessed to identify areas for improvement. The transition marks a significant step toward modernizing specialist healthcare services and strengthening long term system capacity.
