It is shocking that despite controls malpractice and negligence persist at certain public healthcare institutions.

And they cost the state millions of rands in lawsuits.

This week Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang conceded the department had already paid huge amounts in damages following successful legal claims by patients.

The minister's admission is appreciated but further steps should be taken.

Public health institutions are signatories to the patients' charter that guides the conduct of doctors and nurses.

Oversight committees already appointed in Gauteng have helped in minimising acts of laxity at health institutions.

The Department of Health must now appoint similar committees nationally to help monitor malpractice at hospitals and clinics throughout the country.