MEDICAL SPECIALIST (X1 POST)

This position offers a specialist Obstetrician and Gynaecologist the opportunity to work at Newcastle Regional Hospital, a key facility within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health. The successful candidate will join the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, where the primary focus is to strengthen and deliver neonatal clinical services. The role is central to coordinating O&G services across different levels of care, ensuring that patients receive appropriate and timely treatment. The specialist will also be expected to contribute to quality improvement initiatives, including clinical audits, data management, monitoring and evaluation, and regular reporting on key indicators related to the burden of O&G disease in the region.

Applicants must hold a Senior Certificate or Grade 12, an MBChB or equivalent tertiary qualification in Health Sciences, and an appropriate postgraduate qualification that permits registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Medical Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Current HPCSA registration for the 2026/2027 period is essential. The post is graded into three levels based on experience: Grade 1 requires no experience after registration, and registrars who have completed their training may apply provided they submit documentary proof of HPCSA registration. Grade 2 requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience after registration as a specialist in O&G, while Grade 3 requires a minimum of ten years. The role demands sound knowledge of current health and public service legislation, regulations, and policies, as well as medical ethics, epidemiology, and statistics. Strong communication, leadership, decision-making, and clinical skills are essential, along with the ability to teach junior doctors and participate in continuing professional development.

The duties are broad and clinically demanding. The specialist will be responsible for the care of patients in both outpatient and inpatient settings, including performing and supervising operational research activities within the specialty. Participation in the academic and teaching programme is mandatory, including undergraduate and postgraduate O&G training, clinical teaching, and multidisciplinary team discussions. The role also involves providing outreach services to primary care hospitals, community health centres, and district hospitals. The post requires participation in overtime as needed within the department. This is an OSD-graded position and includes a rural allowance as well as commuted overtime conditions. The department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and encourages persons with disabilities to apply. Appointment is subject to security clearance, credit checks, qualification verification, citizenship verification, and employment history verification. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise and an integrity assessment. Candidates must follow the prescribed application procedure, ensuring that the reference number is indicated on the Z83 form and envelope, and only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.