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PSA Technology – A Vital Solution to South Africa’s Oxygen Supply Needs

PSA technology offers South Africa a sustainable and efficient way to address its oxygen supply needs, especially in underserved regions. By generating oxygen on-site, PSA plants reduce logistical challenges, lower costs, and support carbon reduction goals. This solution, if managed with transparency and integrity, holds transformative potential for healthcare access nationwide.

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November 12, 2024

PSA Technology – A Vital Solution to South Africa’s Oxygen Supply Needs

In a recent Daily Maverick article by investigative journalist Pieter-Louis Myburgh, concerns were raised about South Africa’s procurement practices, particularly regarding the installation of PSA oxygen plants in government hospitals. While the reported irregularities are troubling, these issues should not overshadow the transformative potential of PSA technology itself. As a co-founder of O₂Africa, I believe that, when applied responsibly, PSA technology could provide South Africa with an efficient, sustainable means to make oxygen accessible and affordable, especially in underserved areas.

The issues highlighted in Daily Maverick are a clear call for reform in the tender process, particularly within the healthcare sector. For a project as critical as oxygen supply in hospitals, stringent standards on accreditation and supplier expertise are essential. Patients and communities deserve assurance that investments in health infrastructure are both well-considered and delivered with integrity. Accountability in procurement is crucial for South Africa to ensure that its public healthcare systems meet the highest standards of quality.

Procurement Concerns

Despite the procurement concerns, PSA technology itself is highly suitable for addressing South Africa’s oxygen needs. Traditional oxygen supply chains, often centralised and reliant on extensive distribution networks, involve high transportation costs and logistical challenges. PSA technology, on the other hand, can generate oxygen directly on-site, which is especially advantageous for hospitals in rural and remote areas.

In facilities far from urban centres, PSA plants can ensure that the oxygen supply remains steady and reliable. This is vital for areas where logistics often delay delivery or add substantial costs. Installing PSA units directly at healthcare facilities in these regions could make a life-saving difference for patients who require consistent oxygen access.

Independent Supply

Traditional oxygen supply can place a significant financial strain on hospitals, especially those serving low-income communities. With PSA technology, these hospitals could generate oxygen independently, reducing dependence on external suppliers and mitigating the high costs associated with conventional delivery. Lowering these costs makes oxygen more affordable, helping to extend access to patients in need and alleviating pressure on South Africa’s healthcare budget.

Additional Advantages

PSA technology offers an additional advantage in its positive environmental impact. By producing oxygen directly on-site, PSA plants eliminate the need for transportation, a major source of CO₂ emissions. For a country committed to carbon reduction goals, expanding PSA usage aligns with South Africa’s environmental objectives and reduces the carbon footprint associated with oxygen supply in the healthcare sector.

The concerns raised in Myburgh’s article underscore the need for greater accountability and transparency in procurement. South Africa’s healthcare system, particularly its oxygen supply, stands to gain immensely from PSA technology if the procurement process upholds the highest standards of integrity. PSA systems have the potential to transform healthcare access, especially for vulnerable and remote communities, if implemented properly and with the right expertise.

Quality and Expertise

To truly benefit from PSA technology, South Africa must prioritise partnerships with accredited, experienced suppliers who can deliver the required quality and expertise. By addressing procurement weaknesses and embracing innovation, we can create an oxygen supply system that is not only more reliable and accessible but also more sustainable and economically viable.

David Kempe
– Co-founder of O₂Africa