Question NW2336 to the Minister of Health
01 July 2022 - NW2336
Mohlala, Ms MR to ask the Minister of Health
What are the details of the shortage of doctors in rural villages in (i) Limpopo and (ii) the Eastern Cape?
Reply:
Generally, it remains a challenge to recruit health professionals, particularly doctors to underserved and rural areas despite all measures taken by Government to introduce additional emoluments, which amongst others include payment of rural allowance. However, in response to the specific question by the honourable member, the Provincial Departments of Health of Limpopo and Eastern Cape, respectively informed as follows:
(i) Limpopo Department of Health has 12.37% vacancy rate in rural areas.
(ii) Eastern Cape Department of Health has 50-60% vacancy rate in rural areas.
The reason these two Provinces are unable to recruit to their full capacity, amongst others, is because of poor infrastructure, no recreational facilities, lack of medical equipment in those deep rural institutions and the shortage of nurses. The rural allowance is no longer attracting the doctors more especially when they get married. Less chances to specialize like in the Regional Hospitals.
END.