MEDICAL OFFICER: [SHIFTS] = [227] POSTS

This is a large-scale medical officer recruitment drive for the Limpopo Department of Health, offering a total of 227 shift-based posts across numerous hospitals in the province. The positions are graded at three levels, with the grade determined by the number of years of post-registration experience as an independent medical practitioner. Successful candidates will be placed at one of the many designated hospitals, ranging from larger regional facilities such as Pietersburg and Mankweng to smaller district and rural hospitals like Evuxakeni, Hayani, and Witpoort. The role is essentially a clinical medical officer position within the public health sector, requiring a commitment to shift work, including night duty, weekends, and public holidays, as well as the ability to perform commuted overtime based on operational needs.

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 currently be registered as such. For entry-level Grade 1 posts, less than five years of appropriate experience is required. Grade 2 posts require a minimum of five years, and Grade 3 posts require a minimum of ten years of post-registration experience. Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents. A valid driver’s licence is required, except for candidates with disabilities, and computer literacy in MS Office applications and virtual meeting platforms is essential. A skill declaration form must also be submitted as part of the application.

The core duties involve providing comprehensive clinical care, including emergency care, in designated clinical areas, performing ward rounds, and delivering outreach services across the province. Medical officers must respond to emergency calls within stipulated times, including during disasters, and maintain best clinical practice in line with quality standards. They are expected to participate in the department’s Quality Improvement Programme, conduct clinical audits, and ensure compliance with clinical protocols. Record-keeping is a key responsibility, with all clinical records to be generated and maintained according to minimum standards. The role also includes participating in continuing medical education and academic activities, and where required, supervising, instructing, and training medical officers and registrars. Additionally, they may be allocated other duties by a supervisor without boundary restrictions.

Candidates must possess sound clinical knowledge across general medicine, surgery, and anaesthetics for all age groups and sexes at district health service level. They should demonstrate good leadership, communication, presentation, and budgeting skills, as well as the ability to collect and analyse data. A strong understanding of medical ethics, clinical governance, and the rational use of resources is essential. The ability to work independently after hours without supervision is a key requirement. The remuneration package is all-inclusive and includes a rural allowance, with a higher percentage paid to those serving in ISRDS node areas. This is an OSD-graded position, and the post offers an opportunity to work in a variety of hospital settings across Limpopo, contributing to the public health system’s clinical services.