MEDICAL OFFICER: [SHIFTS] = [227] POSTS

This is a substantive opportunity for qualified medical practitioners to join the Limpopo Department of Health as Medical Officers on a shift-based system. The department is filling a large number of posts across a wide network of hospitals, ranging from regional and district facilities to smaller rural hospitals. The roles are graded at three levels according to the practitioner’s post-registration experience, allowing both newly qualified doctors and those with many years of service to apply for an appropriate grade. The successful applicants will provide comprehensive medical care within hospital settings, including emergency medicine, ward management, outpatient services, and outreach programmes. This is an OSD-graded position with an all-inclusive remuneration package, and qualifying candidates may receive a rural allowance if placed at one of the recognised rural or ISRDS nodes.

Applicants must hold a qualification that permits registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as an Independent Medical Practitioner and must currently be registered with the HPCSA in that category. For Grade 1, candidates need less than five years of appropriate experience after registration; Grade 2 requires a minimum of five years; and Grade 3 requires at least ten years. South African citizenship or permanent residency is required. The inherent requirements of the post include a willingness and ability to work shifts, including night duty, weekends and public holidays, as well as the capacity to perform commuted overtime when the need arises and when formally approved. Computer literacy across standard Microsoft Office tools and virtual meeting platforms is also essential, and a valid driver’s licence is required unless the applicant is a person with a disability. A skill declaration form must be attached to the application.

The key knowledge areas expected of candidates include a sound understanding of medical theory and practice, the legal aspects of medicine in South Africa, and general medical, surgical and anaesthetic skills appropriate for district health services across all age groups and sexes. Successful officers will demonstrate leadership, communication, presentation and budgeting skills, as well as the ability to collect and analyse data. They must maintain sound medical ethics, understand clinical governance, work independently after hours, and use resources rationally.

The core duties of the Medical Officer include delivering clinical care, performing ward rounds, supporting outreach programmes, providing medical services at special events and operations, and responding to emergency calls within stipulated times, including in disaster situations. They are expected to uphold best clinical practice through continuous professional development and to generate and maintain medical records to required standards. Participation in quality improvement programmes, clinical audits, continuing medical education, and academic activities is mandatory. Where applicable, the incumbent will supervise, instruct and train junior medical officers and registrars, ensure clinical protocols are followed, and perform any other duties allocated by the supervisor within the province. The department is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from designated groups, including persons with disabilities, as part of its employment equity commitment.