MEDICAL OFFICER: [SHIFTS] = [227] POSTS

This position offers an opportunity for qualified medical practitioners to join the Limpopo Department of Health as a Medical Officer across a substantial number of hospitals and health centres in the province. The vacancy covers multiple posts at different professional grades, reflecting career progression based on years of experience after registration as an independent medical practitioner. The role is an OSD-graded post, with the remuneration structure varying by grade and including an all-inclusive package, with an additional rural allowance applicable either as a general percentage of basic salary or a higher percentage for those serving in ISRDS node areas. The post is fundamentally clinical, based in hospital settings, and requires a willingness to work shifts, including night duty, weekends, and public holidays, as well as the ability to perform commuted overtime when operational needs demand it.

Applicants must hold a qualification that permits registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as an Independent Medical Practitioner and must currently be registered with the HPCSA in that capacity. For appointment at Grade 1, candidates need less than five years of appropriate and recognisable experience after registration. For Grade 2, a minimum of five years is required, while Grade 3 calls for at least ten years of post-registration experience. Candidates must be South African citizens or permanent residents. The job also requires computer literacy in MS Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as proficiency with virtual meeting platforms. A valid driver’s licence is required unless the applicant has a disability. In addition, candidates must submit a skill declaration form as part of the application process.

The core duties of the Medical Officer are wide-ranging and include providing clinical care, with a strong emphasis on emergency care, in designated clinical areas of the hospital. The post-holder must perform ward rounds, participate in outreach programmes, and deliver medical services at special events or operations across the province. Responding to emergency calls within stipulated times, including during disasters or disaster management situations, is a critical responsibility. The role demands maintenance of best clinical practice, continuous professional development through the HPCSA’s CPD system, and accurate generation and maintenance of medical records to required standards. Participation in the department’s Quality Improvement Programme is essential, as is conducting clinical audits, following clinical protocols, and engaging in continuing medical education and academic activities at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Where necessary, the Medical Officer will supervise, instruct, and train junior Medical Officers and Registrars in one or more clinical areas or disciplinesatched. The post also carries broader responsibilities, including any other duties allocated by a supervisor, and operates without boundary restrictions in terms of location within the province.

The ideal candidate should possess sound clinical knowledge and skills across general medicine, surgery, and anaesthetics, applicable to all age groups and both sexes at district health service level. A strong understanding of the legal framework governing medical practice in South Africa, as well as sound medical ethics and knowledge of clinical governance, is essential. Good leadership, verbal and written communication, presentation, and budgeting skills are required, along with the ability to collect and analyse data. The post requires the capacity to work after hours independently and without supervision, and to use resources rationally. These posts are spread across numerous hospitals in Limpopo, including major centres such as Pietersburg, Mankweng, Tshilidzini, and Lebowakgomo, as well as many rural and district hospitals. This is a significant recruitment drive, filling 227 posts in total across Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 levels, and offers a meaningful career opportunity for medical officers seeking to practise in a provincial public health setting.