Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital
One of Africa's largest hospitals, offering comprehensive public healthcare and serving as a vital academic and training center in Soweto.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Official visiting hours
Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital
Best Time
Official visiting hours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
One of Africa's largest hospitals, offering comprehensive public healthcare and serving as a vital academic and training center in Soweto.
"While facing challenges, the dedication of staff at Bara Hospital shines through, providing essential care to millions."
🚗 Parking Hassles
Expect significant delays due to restricted exits and mandatory security checks. Parking is far from wards. :car:
💧 Water Source Initiative
A borehole donation ensures a sustainable water supply, crucial for hospital operations. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Paediatric Ward 17
Ward 17
Renowned for its dedicated nurses and doctors providing compassionate care and effective treatment for children.
Plastic Surgery Ward
Plastic Surgery Ward
Celebrated for excellent patient feedback and successful procedures like breast reductions.
Garden of Heroes
Garden of Heroes
A poignant tribute to healthcare workers lost during COVID-19 and whistleblowers who fought corruption.
Lactation Centre
Lactation Centre
A vital new facility supporting mothers and newborns, a testament to community partnerships.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Bara: What to Expect
Patient and Visitor Guidelines
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Hassles
Expect significant delays due to restricted exits and mandatory security checks. Parking is far from wards. :car:
💧 Water Source Initiative
A borehole donation ensures a sustainable water supply, crucial for hospital operations.
🤝 Community Support
Various initiatives, like Ponseti treatment for clubfoot, highlight strong community and NGO partnerships.
⚖️ Feedback Process
Formal complaints or compliments can be submitted to the Complaints Manager.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Hassles
Expect significant delays due to restricted exits and mandatory security checks. Parking is far from wards. :car:
💧 Water Source Initiative
A borehole donation ensures a sustainable water supply, crucial for hospital operations.
🤝 Community Support
Various initiatives, like Ponseti treatment for clubfoot, highlight strong community and NGO partnerships.
⚖️ Feedback Process
Formal complaints or compliments can be submitted to the Complaints Manager.
🏥 Medical Rotation Experience
Medical students find it an amazing and valuable learning experience. :mortar_board:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital is a vital, large-scale public healthcare institution with dedicated staff, particularly praised in specialized wards like Paediatrics and Plastic Surgery. However, some visitors report significant issues with patient dignity, long waits, and systemic neglect, highlighting the strain on public healthcare resources.
"My sister was involved in a terrible car accident and taken to Baragwanath Hospital the closest medical facility to the scene. What she has endured since arriving there is deeply distressing and completely unacceptable.
From the moment she was admitted, she was treated with a shocking lack of dignity. She was left lying naked in a bed with nothing to cover her for over six hours, waiting for her first scans. Those scans then took an unreasonably long time to be processed. If she had suffered any severe internal injuries, those delays could have cost her life.
As if that wasn’t enough, she has been denied food and water for more than a full day, and staff have refused to allow our family to give her anything, even after she repeatedly asked for water. This blatant neglect and disregard for basic human needs is inhumane.
What makes this even more infuriating is the reality that millions of hardworking South Africans are unemployed and would give anything for the chance to work especially in roles where they could make a real difference. Yet, in our state hospitals, we too often see staff who show no passion for caring for others, no sense of urgency, and no accountability. Our healthcare system deserves better and so do the people in it.
I am absolutely outraged. This horrific treatment in our state hospitals cannot continue. The lack of empathy and responsibility shows just how deeply broken our public healthcare system has become. Our country is failing the very people it is meant to protect its citizens.
I’m tired of ghis injustice, my sister and every other patient there deserves to get the urgent and professional care that they deserve.
I ask you (IS THIS HOW YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR FAMILY TREATED?)
Regards,
Chandri"
Chandri Jordaan
"I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for the outstanding service provided by the doctors and nurses in Ward 17 Paediatrics. The doctors demonstrate unwavering commitment to their patients, working tirelessly to ensure their recovery. Throughout my stay, I observed numerous children showing significant improvement. The nurses play a vital role in maintaining a smooth and efficient environment, delivering compassionate care to each child. Parents can have peace of mind knowing their children are in capable hands. When my daughter suffered an asthma attack, the doctors responded promptly and effectively, delaying her discharge until she was fully recovered. I am deeply indebted to the doctors and nurses from Ward 17 and wish them all the best."
Nonhlanhla senneloe
"I’m writing this with a heavy heart… my mother is admitted at the hospital it’s been a week now. She has a spine fracture which makes her not to be able to walk to the restroom, they using diapers on her. To cut the long story short during visiting hours (1pm - 3pm) she helped herself and I was still there - got home and checked up on her at around 8pm, she told me they haven’t changed her diaper. The time now is 10pm they still haven’t changed her, over 8 hours with a dirty diaper. How is that good for her health? Considering the fact that they always leave her like that for hours. The nurses in word 24 repulse me they are so inhumane. Sad part is I was advised not to say anything because they will kill her"
Ndzalama Mongwe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The hospital is located in Soweto, Johannesburg. Public transport options like taxis and buses are available. Driving can be challenging due to traffic and parking restrictions.
Parking can be a significant issue, with restricted exits causing traffic jams and long waits. Visitors are often directed to park about 1km away from the wards.
While the hospital is a major facility, there have been reports of car theft and break-ins in the parking areas. Exercise caution and secure your belongings.
Once inside the premises, you may need to walk a considerable distance to reach your ward. Inquire with security for directions, but be prepared for a walk.
The long distances to wards and the condition of walkways can be challenging for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to seek assistance if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital provides free medical services to patients. There are no entry fees for visitors, but parking may incur charges or delays.
Visiting hours are typically from 1 PM to 3 PM daily. It's advisable to confirm these hours upon arrival as they can sometimes change.
While some reviews suggest restrictions, it's best to check with the ward staff regarding bringing food and water for patients, especially considering specific dietary needs or medical conditions.
You can contact the Complaints Manager, Ms. Thethiwe Molefi, to formally lodge a complaint or compliment about your experience.
Visitors may be subject to security checks. It's recommended to travel light and be prepared for potential delays during entry and exit.
🎫 🏥 Onsite Experience
It's a very busy and large public hospital. While staff dedication is often praised, patients and visitors may experience long waits and resource challenges.
As a major academic hospital, it offers a wide range of services, including paediatrics, oncology, plastic surgery, and emergency care.
Patient care can be mixed. While many staff are highly dedicated and provide excellent care, some reviews highlight instances of neglect and lack of dignity.
Yes, the Paediatrics Ward 17 is highly regarded for its care. There's also a Lactation Centre supporting mothers and newborns.
Security is present, but there have been reports of theft and break-ins. Visitors should remain vigilant and secure their belongings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information on visitor dining options is limited. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks or plan to eat outside the hospital premises.
Patient access to outside food can be restricted. It's best to consult with the nursing staff regarding specific patient dietary needs and hospital policies.
Hospital meals are provided, but the quality and availability can vary. Some reviews mention patients being denied food or water, highlighting potential issues.
Specific details about on-site cafes or canteens for visitors are not widely available. It's recommended to be prepared with your own provisions.
Communicate any special dietary requirements to the medical staff. They can advise on hospital provisions or potential arrangements.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography of patients and staff without explicit consent is not permitted in healthcare facilities. Be respectful of privacy.
The Garden of Heroes offers a more appropriate and respectful setting for photography, honouring healthcare workers.
While not a tourist attraction, moments of community support and medical advancements, like the Lactation Centre, might be captured respectfully.
Filming or vlogging for personal or professional use typically requires official permission from the hospital administration.
The exterior of such a large and significant institution can be photographed, but always be mindful of the surrounding environment and any security personnel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing entertainment or comfort items for children during their stay, and be aware of the hospital's policies regarding food and drink for patients. The hospital also hosts community events that can bring a positive atmosphere for young patients.
🧑⚕️ Medical Professionals & Students
+1While the experience can be demanding, it is widely regarded as incredibly valuable and rewarding. Embrace the opportunity to learn from dedicated colleagues and contribute to patient care in one of Africa's most significant healthcare institutions.
🚗 Visitors & Drivers
Security concerns have been raised regarding vehicle safety, so ensure all valuables are secured or left at home. Familiarize yourself with the hospital's layout as much as possible beforehand to navigate the large campus more efficiently.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scale and Significance of Bara Hospital
Beyond its medical functions, Bara is also a vital academic and training center. It's a place where medical students gain invaluable hands-on experience, and where groundbreaking research and advancements in healthcare often take place. Initiatives like the advancement of minimally invasive gynecological surgery and specialized training programs highlight its commitment to medical progress.
The hospital's impact extends to community well-being, with initiatives like the Al Tawheed Foundation's borehole donation ensuring a sustainable water source, and the Garden of Heroes honoring those who served. Despite the challenges inherent in managing such a large public facility, the dedication of its staff and its role in the community remain undeniable.
+1Patient Experiences: A Spectrum of Care
However, there are also concerning reports detailing instances of neglect, lack of dignity, and long delays in care. Some patients have described shocking experiences, such as being left without basic necessities or facing significant delays in receiving scans or treatment. These accounts highlight the immense pressure on the public healthcare system and the challenges faced by both staff and patients.
It's important to note that the hospital's Complaints Manager is available to address feedback, indicating a mechanism for addressing issues.
The experiences shared, both positive and negative, underscore the critical need for continued support and improvement within South Africa's public healthcare infrastructure, while also recognizing the tireless efforts of many healthcare professionals working under demanding conditions. Community Partnerships and Initiatives
Furthermore, community support extends to vital infrastructure improvements. The donation of a fully functional borehole by the Al Tawheed Foundation ensures a sustainable and independent water source, a critical resource for a facility of this magnitude.
These partnerships are crucial for alleviating the strain on public infrastructure and ensuring consistent patient care.Beyond medical and infrastructural support, community engagement also focuses on well-being and recognition. Initiatives like Easter drives bring joy to children and nurses, fostering a sense of community spirit.
The Garden of Heroes stands as a testament to the hospital's respect for its staff, honoring those who served and sacrificed. These collaborations highlight the broader ecosystem of support that surrounds Bara Hospital, extending its impact beyond direct medical treatment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit