MEDICAL OFFICER: [SHIFTS] = [227] POSTS

This vacancy offers multiple posts for qualified Medical Officers to work on a shift system within public hospitals across the province. The positions are graded according to experience, with appointments made at one of three levels depending on the number of years a candidate has practised after registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Successful appointees will be placed at various hospital centres, with posts distributed across a wide range of facilities. The role is suited to medical professionals who are ready to provide comprehensive clinical services in a district health services environment, often under pressure and outside of regular working hours.

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 vary by grade: less than five years for the entry grade, a minimum of five years for the second grade, and a minimum of ten years for the senior grade, in each case measured after registration as an Independent Medical Practitioner. Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents. The post also requires a willingness to work shifts, including night duty, weekends and public holidays, and to perform overtime when operational needs demand it. Commuted overtime may be approved by the Accounting Officer on a flexi or shift basis. Computer literacy is essential, including MS Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint, as well as familiarity with virtual meeting platforms. A valid driver’s licence is required, except for candidates with disabilities, and a skill declaration form must be submitted with the application.

The key knowledge and skills needed include a sound understanding and application of medical theory and practice, as well as the legal aspects of medicine in South Africa. Candidates should have strong clinical skills across general medicine, surgery and anaesthetics, covering all age groups and sexes at district hospital level. Leadership, communication, presentation and budgeting skills are important, along with the ability to collect and analyse data, uphold medical ethics, and apply clinical governance principles. The ability to work independently after hours, without supervision, and to use resources rationally is also required.

In terms of duties, the Medical Officer will provide clinical care, including emergency care, in designated clinical areas, and will perform ward rounds and outreach programmes. The role may involve providing medical services at special events and operations across the province, responding to emergency calls within stipulated times, and participating in disaster management. The incumbent must maintain best clinical practice in line with quality standards, keep up to date through Continuing Professional Development, and generate and maintain accurate medical records. Participation in the department’s quality improvement programme, conducting clinical audits, and ensuring compliance with clinical protocols are all key responsibilities. The post also involves participating in continuing medical education and academic activities, and where required, supervising, instructing and training Medical Officers and Registrars. Additional duties may be allocated by the supervisor, without boundary restrictions.

This is an OSD-graded medical post with an all-inclusive remuneration package, and a rural allowance may be payable for qualifying appointees. Applicants should note the inherent requirements of shift work and the need for flexibility. These posts offer an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to public healthcare delivery while developing broad clinical and leadership experience in a hospital setting.