MEDICAL OFFICER: GRADE 1 – 3 [SESSIONAL] = 151 POSITIONS

This is a sessional medical officer position open at all public hospitals within the Limpopo Department of Health, with a total of 151 posts available across the province. The role is graded at Medical Officer Grade 1, 2, or 3 depending on the applicant’s years of relevant experience after registration as an independent medical practitioner with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Sessional appointments are part-time and paid at an hourly or per-session rate, with the grade determining the applicable rate. This is an opportunity for qualified medical practitioners to contribute to clinical services across a wide range of hospitals, from large regional facilities to district and specialised hospitals, including MDR-TB and other specialised centres.

To be considered, applicants must hold a qualification that allows registration with the HPCSA as an independent medical practitioner and must currently be registered as such. Experience requirements are tiered: Grade 1 is for those with less than five years of appropriate experience, Grade 2 requires at least five but less than ten years, and Grade 3 requires ten or more years of recognisable experience after registration. South African citizenship or permanent residency is mandatory. The inherent requirements of the job include a willingness to work shifts, flexi hours, night duty, weekends, public holidays, and to perform overtime on short notice when operational needs demand. Commuted overtime may be approved by the accounting officer based on service requirements. Candidates must also be computer literate in MS Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and virtual meeting platforms, possess a valid driver’s licence, and submit a skills declaration form.

The successful incumbent will provide comprehensive clinical care, including emergency care, in designated clinical areas, and will perform ward rounds, outreach programmes, and medical services at special events or operations across the province. They must respond to emergency calls within stipulated times, including during disasters, and maintain best clinical practice in line with quality standards and the HPCSA’s Continuous Professional Development system. Other duties include generating and maintaining accurate medical records, participating in the facility’s quality improvement programme, conducting clinical audits, and ensuring compliance with clinical protocols. The role also involves teaching and supervision, where required, of medical interns, community service medical officers, registrars, and other trainees. Additional tasks may be allocated by the supervisor without boundary restrictions.

Ideal candidates will have sound clinical knowledge across general medicine, surgery, and anaesthetics for all age groups and sexes at district health services level, as well as a strong understanding of the legal aspects of medical practice in South Africa. Leadership, communication, presentation, budgeting, and data analysis skills are important, along with a commitment to medical ethics, clinical governance, and the rational use of resources. Personal attributes sought include integrity, professionalism, attention to detail, accountability, reliability, a proactive and results-oriented approach, calmness under pressure, adaptability, respect for stakeholders, and a team-oriented yet supportive leadership style. A commitment to continuous learning and Batho Pele principles is essential. Each hospital has its own application process, with contact details and application links provided separately, so applicants should apply directly to the hospital of their choice.