REGISTRAR (MEDICAL): PUBLIC HEALTH MEDICINE (X4 POSTS) (4-Year Contract)

This four-year contract post offers a medical registrar placement in Public Health Medicine within the Health Intelligence component of the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, in collaboration with the University of Cape Town. The successful candidates will be based at Head Office in Cape Town and will rotate through public sector health services at different locations; one of the four posts specifically requires placement in George for two years. The registrar is expected to combine clinical public health service with formal postgraduate training, registering for the MMed in Public Health Medicine at UCT and participating in the academic programme of the department and university.

Applicants must hold a qualification that permits registration with the HPCSA as a Medical Practitioner and must be registered with the HPCSA in independent practice. A valid Code B/EB driver’s licence is required. Candidates must also register for the MMed in Public Health Medicine at UCT. The department looks for a strong grasp of public health, health systems and health policy, along with computer literacy and the ability to learn new technical skills. A relevant postgraduate public health qualification will be an advantage. Excellent written and verbal communication, sound interpersonal skills and effective time management are essential, and the successful candidate must share the values of the Department of Health and Wellness.

In terms of duties, the registrar will provide public health medical services across different rotations and facilities, teach and supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students, and run training for Western Cape Government service personnel. The post also involves operational research, with findings presented and published in peer-reviewed scientific forums. The role has a managerial and leadership dimension, applying public health knowledge to administration, resource allocation, and programme monitoring and evaluation. In addition, the registrar participates in formal training in public health disciplinary components.

Other important conditions apply. No payment of any kind is required when applying, and a competency test may be administered. Shortlisted applicants will undergo further checks including security clearance, qualification verification, criminal record and previous employment checks, and appointment depends on positive outcomes. The registrar appointment runs for a maximum of four years, and registrars may be seconded or transferred to another institution during training after consultation. The post requires registration as a postgraduate with the applicable Western Cape university, and if that registration ceases for any reason, the registrar appointment also ends. Existing employees on higher salary packages may retain their salary position and pension benefits; employees who continue pension benefits will be required to resign after the registrarship if they do not obtain a specialist post. Candidates who do not yet have the stipulated registration may apply, provided they submit proof of application and payment of registration fees by the interview date, with the concession limited to first-time registration or change of status. Certain registrar posts will be identified under the department’s Affirmative Action programme to help build a representative specialist cadre.