Being located in Berea, a central Durban suburb, means that St Augustine’s Hospital commands a full view of the cityscape – from the azure waters of the ocean to the manic hubbub of thriving metropolis. St Augustine’s Hospital is world-acclaimed, having played a significant role in KwaZulu Natal’s adherence to providing exemplary medical services. Forming part of Netcare, a chain of private clinics situated around South Africa, it is the largest healthcare provider in the region.
The hospital was founded by the second Bishop of Natal, Bishop Jolviet in 1892. During that time, it was a humble place of recovery that was run by nine dedicated Augustinian sisters. Today, it boasts world-class facilities, state-of-the-art medical equipment and technology as well as exceptional services by trained professionals.
Highly specialised services and facilities provided by the hospital include the Bariatric Surgery Unit and the Hyperbaric Medicine and Wound Care Centre. Having obtained accreditation to perform gastric bypass, the Bariatric surgery unit is managed by a holistic team of specialists. The Hyperbaric Medicine and Wound Care Centre is widely known for its treatment of thirteen rare medical conditions, including gas embolisms, decompression sickness, carbon monoxide and cyanide poisoning, gas gangrene and other related illnesses and ailments.
Other general facilities include a cardiology unit, a gynaecology ward, obstetrics and a dermatology centre. All equipment used by the medical staff is up-to-date and regularly checked to prevent malfunction. The staff, being expertly trained, are known for their professional service and quality care.
Additional services that patients and visitors can make use of include a coffee shop, a pharmacy and an auto bank. The retail pharmacy is located in the main reception room of the hospital, providing individuals with a wide range of toiletries, gifts and medicinal supplies.
While the focus is on their own patients, St Augustine’s Hospital is involved in a number of community outreach programmes. Through various drives and fundraising initiatives, Durban-based charities have been adopted. The main beneficiaries include the Jes Foord Foundation – a centre dedicated to victims of sexual assault- as well as StarFish Baby Home – an annual collection of baby food and clothes.
Distances are shown as the crow flies and not necessarily the actual travelling distance.