By Umamah Bakharia
21:12:2021

The Public Service Association (PSA) represents approximately 80 000 healthcare workers.

However, over time, the PSA has raised concerns regarding the lack of urgency by the Department of Health to place Doctors in much-needed communities.

Compulsory community service of 12 months was introduced in South Africa in 1998 for health professionals, starting with medical practitioners.

In a statement, the PSA says: “In view of the critical need amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and a severe shortage of medical professionals, it is unacceptable that the Department keeps delaying the placement of such doctors. It is important that public facilities are adequately staffed and that the provision of trained staff across the country is adhered to. This will ensure efficient functioning and management of systems to meet the country’s healthcare needs.”

Speaking to Radio Islam, PSA’s Acting Deputy General Manager of Member Affairs, Reuben Maleka, says that it is about time this issue needs to be resolved as there are qualified and training doctors awaiting placements.

“It is unfortunate that the Department of Health has, to date, failed to adhere to the compulsory placement of these Doctors, thus placing an additional burden on the health system,” says the PSA.

The PSA calls on the Minister of Health to take decisive steps to ensure that these placements are done as a matter of urgency, failing which the PSA will consider legal action.