South Africa has a new health Director-General. Last week, a cabinet statement confirmed the appointment of Dr Thembisile Xulu, the outgoing chief executive of the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC). She becomes the country’s sixth permanent health DG since 1994. Her appointment moves her from coordinating the national response to HIV, tuberculosis and sexually transmitted infections into the top…
Tag: Healthcare Workers
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Gauteng Nurse Shortage Deepens, Threatening NHI Rollout
Gauteng’s public health system is losing at least 100 nurses a month, a haemorrhage that officials warn could undermine the rollout of National Health Insurance (NHI). The province, which has the country’s highest overall health spending and the most hospital beds, told the provincial legislature it needs at least R5.7bn to fill thousands of vacancies. The Gauteng nurse shortage now…
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SA’s Ebola Preparedness Rises As DRC Outbreak Grows
SA’s Ebola preparedness has intensified as health authorities monitor the rapidly expanding Bundibugyo virus disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said authorities designated 36 hospitals to receive and manage patients if an imported Ebola case occurs. The facilities include 24 public hospitals and 12 private hospitals. Three specialist committees are also coordinating readiness…
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Healthcare Access During Protests: SAMA Issues Warning
The South African Medical Association has called for stronger protection of healthcare workers and patients during anti-immigration marches expected across the country. SAMA said medical professionals must be able to work without threats, intimidation or political interference. It also stressed that all patients should be able to reach healthcare facilities safely. Access should not depend on nationality or immigration status.…
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HIV/AIDS Programme Remains Strong Amid Funding Cuts
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has provided reassurances on the future of South Africa’s HIV/Aids programme following the withdrawal of PEPFAR funding. He detailed the government’s mitigation efforts and engagements with potential donors.1 HIV/AIDS Programme ‘Not at Risk of Collapsing’ Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has moved to quell fears surrounding the future of South Africa’s HIV/Aids response. He firmly stated the…