Page 52 - SDG Report

FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS IN ADDRESSING COVID 19 RESPONSES
Below are some future considerations for the municipality. Whilst the list of possibilities is not exhaustive it provides us with an understanding that whilst we are in crisis, we need to look at opportunities that this pandemic would bring about in changing the organization.
COMMUNITY LEVEL DATA
There needs to be better understanding of the spread and transmission of the virus at a community level. This would require disaggregated data, surveillance, diagnostic testing, monitoring systems that ensure up-to-date information at a community level.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The Municipality must continue to implement measures that would assist in slowing down the transmission of the virus through constant simple communication tools in all languages that reaches all citizens e.g. structure communication tools to meet the needs of all age groups and persons with special needs. Investment in these tools at this stage would also assist the Municipality in the future as it creates additional participation platforms across varied stakeholders.
HIGH RISK GROUPS
Focus attention on population groups that are at a higher risk of contracting the virus. Attention needs to be paid to limiting the transgressions amongst these groups through targeted measures to protect them.
REDUCING THE SURGE ON HEALTH CARE FACILITIES
Implement measures to reduce risk of transmissions within health care facilities. As case numbers grow there is a need to ensure that critical need patients have access to medical facilities. To prevent the health system from being overwhelmed innovative means of diagnosis should be considered e.g., telephonic consultations with a qualified medical expert, access to mental health practitioners via various technological platforms, access to counsellors. Health care facilities would also need to review their triage processes and facilities to assist in providing fast and efficient medical diagnosis.
DEVELOPING A CULTURE OF WORKING FROM HOME
The pandemic has given the city an opportunity to review its Processes, Structures, People and Technology. As organizations we need to prepare ourselves for the ‘new normal’ by ensuring that the organizations are efficient, productive, and safe for both onsite and remote work forces. The demand for our workforce to work remotely and to observe social distancing is creating a new set of challenges for both managers and employees alike. Workplace safety has also become an even more important issue post this Covid-19 pandemic. A review of the work processes would assist in transitioning to the ‘new normal’.
50 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS GOOD PRACTICE