MEDICAL SPECIALIST – INTERNAL MEDICINE (X1 POST)

This position offers an opportunity for a qualified medical specialist to lead and deliver internal medicine services at Ladysmith Regional Hospital, a key public healthcare facility in KwaZulu-Natal. The successful candidate will join the hospital’s medical team as a Medical Specialist in Internal Medicine, playing a central role in providing comprehensive inpatient, outpatient and emergency care. The post is graded on the Occupational Specific Dispensation for medical specialists, with appointment possible at Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3 depending on the candidate’s years of appropriate experience after registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. Additionally, the role attracts an inhospitable area allowance of 18 percent, reflecting the rural and underserved nature of the region, and medical aid is optional.

Candidates must hold an MBChB degree or equivalent qualification, together with a postgraduate qualification that permits registration with the HPCSA as a Medical Specialist in Internal Medicine. Current, active registration with the HPCSA in this specialty is essential, and shortlisted applicants will be required to produce proof of registration for the relevant year. For entry at Grade 1, no post-registration experience is required, while Grade 2 demands at least five years of appropriate experience and Grade 3 at least ten years. A valid driver’s licence is recommended. The ideal candidate should possess sound leadership, communication, interpersonal and decision-making skills, along with a thorough understanding of public service health legislation, clinical governance, professional ethics, patient safety, and current clinical guidelines. The ability to mentor and teach junior doctors, interns, nurses and multidisciplinary team members is a core requirement.

The duties are wide-ranging and clinically demanding. The specialist will provide specialist-level internal medicine services across wards, outpatient clinics and emergency settings, including after-hours supervision and participation in commuted overtime. A significant part of the role involves clinical teaching, supervision and mentorship of medical officers, interns and students. The post holder will also be expected to develop, implement and review clinical policies and protocols, lead quality improvement projects, participate in mortality and morbidity reviews, clinical audits, risk management and broader clinical governance activities. Additionally, the incumbent will establish and manage specialist clinics, provide regional-level consultation and referral advice, support outreach and academic activities, and contribute to operational planning and performance reviews. Administrative duties delegated by the Head of Clinical Unit, accurate clinical documentation, and effective resource management are also integral to the position.

The department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and actively encourages persons with disabilities to apply. Appointment is subject to security vetting, qualification verification, citizenship and employment history checks. Shortlisted candidates will undergo pre-entry assessments, and only those selected for interviews will be contacted. It is important for applicants to note that no travel or subsistence claims will be paid for interview attendance. This post offers a meaningful career for a dedicated physician seeking to make a lasting impact in a regional hospital setting while contributing to specialist training and improved health outcomes in a rural community.