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

This is a sessional Medical Officer opportunity within the Limpopo Department of Health, offering 151 positions across all public hospitals in the province. The roles are graded from Grade 1 to Grade 3, depending on the applicant’s years of appropriate experience after registration as an independent medical practitioner. These are sessional posts, meaning work is performed on a part-time or shift basis, and the positions are open to South African citizens and permanent residents only. The successful candidates will be placed at various hospitals throughout Limpopo, and the roles require a high level of flexibility, including willingness to work nights, weekends, public holidays, and to perform overtime at short notice. Commuted overtime may be approved by the Accounting Officer based on operational needs, and the ability to work independently after hours is essential.

To be considered, applicants must hold a qualification that allows registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as an Independent Medical Practitioner, and they must maintain current registration with the HPCSA. For Grade 1, less than five years of appropriate experience is required; Grade 2 requires at least five but less than ten years; and Grade 3 requires ten or more years of post-registration experience. In addition to clinical qualifications, candidates must be computer literate in MS Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, be proficient in virtual meeting platforms, and possess a valid driver’s licence. A skills declaration form must be attached to the application. The ideal candidate will have sound knowledge of medical theory and practice, legal aspects of medicine in South Africa, and strong clinical skills across general medicine, surgery, and anaesthetics for all age groups and sexes at district health services level. Leadership, communication, presentation, budgeting, and data analysis skills are also required, along with a solid understanding of medical ethics, clinical governance, and rational resource use.

The key performance areas for these roles are broad and demanding. Medical officers will provide comprehensive clinical care, including emergency care, in designated clinical areas. They will perform ward rounds, participate in outreach programmes, and deliver medical services at special events and 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. This includes participating in the department’s Quality Improvement Programme, conducting clinical audits, and ensuring compliance with clinical protocols. Medical officers are also expected to generate and maintain accurate medical records, engage in continuous professional development as required by the HPCSA, and take part in continuing medical education and academic activities at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Where required, they will supervise, instruct, and train medical interns, community service medical officers, and registrars. Finally, they may be allocated any other duties by their supervisor, without boundary restrictions, reflecting the need for adaptability and a proactive approach. Personal attributes such as integrity, professionalism, accountability, reliability, calmness under pressure, and a commitment to Batho Pele principles are essential for success in this demanding but vital role within Limpopo’s public health system.