Access to primary healthcare in Ravensmead has significantly improved following the official opening of the new R105 million Community Day Care Centre (CDC), implemented by the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness.
This modern facility, located at 82 Florida Street, replaced an outdated local clinic that could not cope with the growing population of the area. The new centre is designed to serve approximately 6800 patients each month.
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness officially opened the facility on October 2, 2026. Minister of Health and Wellness for the Western Cape, Mireille Wenger, emphasized the importance of investing in modern infrastructure to improve the provision of public healthcare.
Wenger stated that 'patient well-being was at the heart of this design, and through the expansion of services in this new clinic, we are building a stronger and more accessible healthcare system for all.'
Residents can now access a wide range of services in one place
Located near public transport routes, the new CDC offers an expanded range of medical services to optimize patient flow, reduce waiting times, and enhance comfort through its spacious design, natural lighting, and improved ventilation.
Residents can now access diverse services in one location, including:
- Emergency and minor ailments: urgent care, treatment of minor injuries, and pharmacy services.
- Maternal and child health: antenatal and postnatal care, infant services, immunization (EPI), and Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI).
- Treatment of chronic and infectious diseases: long-term disease management, nutritional support, HIV and tuberculosis services, and prevention of vertical transmission.
- Specialized care: dental services, mental health counselling, cervical cancer screening, contraception, and reproductive health.
- Youth services: dedicated youth zones and school health programs.
The clinic operates on weekdays from 7:00 to 16:30 and will be fully staffed with the existing team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, professional nurses, clinical nurses, and administrative staff, ensuring continuity of care.
North Tigerberg Division Director Dr. Michael Phillips highly praised the collaborative efforts that made the project a reality after many years of planning and negotiations. Dr. Phillips noted: 'Through all the pain, struggle, negotiations, and interactions, we have jointly realised the dream of the Ravensmead and surrounding communities for healthcare.'
Operations Manager Ms. Izanne van Heerden expressed enthusiasm for her team and urged local residents to take pride in the new infrastructure. She said: 'This is more than just a new building; it is a place where our community can receive necessary care and support in a comfortable setting. We ask our community to make this facility their own, care for it, and work with us as we settle in.'
Community welcomes new medical center
Community leader and Health Committee Chairperson Don Marcus supported these optimistic sentiments, calling the facility a symbol of unity and progress. Marcus emphasized that 'this new facility gives us reason to hope for the future. It reminds us that when people unite with a common goal, positive change is possible,' adding that the Public Health Forum will continue to advocate for quality and responsive care.