Anglo American Platinum : Polokwane Smelter donates Arterial Blood Gas Analysis Machine

Machine to increase the capabilities of the paediatric ward at the Mankweng academic hospital.

Anglo American Platinum is proud to announce the donation of an Arterial Blood Gas Analysis machine to Mankweng Hospital's paediatric ward by the company's Polokwane Smelter.

Together with the Pietersburg Hospital Campus, the government-funded Mankweng Hospital forms part of the Polokwane/Mankweng Hospital Complex (PMHC). The PMHC is an academic medical complex that provides tertiary services to all Level 1 (District) and Level 2 (Regional) Hospitals in the Limpopo Province. On average, Mangkweng has over 400 admitted patients and sees up to 1500 patients daily with referrals and walk-ins at the outpatient department.

The donation of the Arterial Blood Gas Analysis machine will allow the hospital to easily diagnose patients suffering from shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, confusion, and nausea by measuring the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. The machine may also be used to determine the ph of the blood or how acidic it is. This can help a doctor determine how well your lungs and kidneys are working. Historically, the hospital had to refer patients to hospitals as far as Gauteng to get the same tests conducted.

Anglo American Platinum has a long history of contributing to, and partnering with, the Mankweng Hospital. This most recent donation is another example of how the company, as part of the broader Anglo American group is focusing their FutureSmart Mining ^™ strategy by applying cutting-edge technological advances and broad innovative thinking to address mining's major challenges, including education and healthcare. Through Anglo American Platinum's Social Labour Plans initiatives, they are able to promote economic growth, employment and advance the social and economic welfare of local communities

Polokwane Smelter Manager, Phillimon Mukumbe said 'It gives us a great sense of joy to know that this machine will change the lives of many people in Limpopo. The development and health of the community in which we operate are a priority for us and the donation of this machine to a learning hospital such as Mankweng will help with achieving both objectives. We look forward to continuing to support this vital resource where possible.'

Over the last 4 years the Polokwane Smelter has supported the hospital with donations of soft toys, story books, bicycles, 4 television sets and DVD players and painting of all the paediatric units' wards.