HEAD CLINICAL UNIT (INTERNAL MEDICINE) (X1 POST)

This senior medical leadership post places the successful candidate at the helm of internal medicine services at Madadeni Provincial Hospital, a key health facility within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health. As Head Clinical Unit, the incumbent will be responsible for driving efficient, cost-effective and clinically sound internal medicine care not only for patients at Madadeni Hospital itself but also across its drainage sites. The role sits within a broader provincial health system and requires close collaboration with tertiary hospitals, referral facilities and community stakeholders to ensure continuity of care and improved patient outcomes.

Candidates must hold an appropriate health science qualification, specifically an MBCHB, and be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as a Specialist in the category of Internal Medicine. In addition, at least five years of appropriate experience as a Medical Specialist after registration with the HPCSA in this category is required. The ideal candidate will bring a strong command of specialist procedures and protocols, knowledge of public service legislative prescripts, and well-developed human resources, financial management and general administrative skills. Budget control, expenditure monitoring, project management, computer literacy in MS Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint, report writing, presentation and teaching abilities, strategic capability, leadership, problem-solving, change management, interpersonal courtesy and cross-cultural awareness are all essential competencies for this demanding role.

The duties are wide-ranging and include rendering specialist internal medicine services, strengthening clinical governance, ensuring rational use of laboratory investigations, medication, consumables and equipment, and administering the Internal Medicine Department efficiently. The post holder will plan and participate in training of nurses, clinical support personnel, medical officers, interns and undergraduate medical students, while also supporting clinical research, clinical trials and continuing professional development activities. Regional service development, particularly improving renal services, is a key focus, as is providing expert advice to clinicians on diagnosis, management and treatment. The role requires conducting outpatient specialist clinics and inpatient consultations, ensuring a 24-hour internal medicine service, and providing vision and strategic direction to inspire quality service delivery. Other responsibilities include managing staff performance, enforcing health and safety compliance, formulating and monitoring protocols aligned with Department of Health policies, compiling medium- and long-term expenditure frameworks, implementing fiscal control measures, driving quality assurance, generating reports and presentations, strengthening partnerships with tertiary hospitals such as Greys and IALCH, improving referral management, maintaining clinical, professional and ethical standards, and managing the EPMDS of the department.

This Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and aims to promote representivity across all occupational categories, with persons with disabilities encouraged to apply. Shortlisted candidates, including those at SMS level, will be required to undergo two pre-entry assessments: a practical exercise testing technical and generic suitability and an integrity assessment. Appointment is subject to favourable NIA checks including security clearance, credit records, qualification verification, citizenship and previous employment verification. Applicants should note that due to the high volume of applications, receipt will not be acknowledged and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and no S&T claims will be paid to interview candidates. The reference number must be indicated on the Z83 form and the back of the envelope, and while a completed Z83 and detailed CV are required at application stage, certified copies of ID and qualifications are only requested from shortlisted candidates.