By Alicia Mmashakana
A total of 412 new healthcare professionals and support staff have been appointed in the Limpopo province, according to premier Phophi Ramathuba.
This follows Ramathuba’s State of the Province Address earlier this year, which included a commitment to appoint 300 health workers to enhance public healthcare.
She directed the MECs for finance and health to collaborate and prioritise the hiring of health professionals and other critical personnel.
“The cohort we welcome today includes medical and dental officers, professional nurses, pharmacists, occupational therapists, clinical psychologists, diagnostic radiographers, emergency medical services personnel, support staff, quantity surveyors and artisans,” the premier said in Polokwane on Tuesday.
“These are not just job titles. These are vital roles in the mission to deliver quality healthcare to the people of our province.”
Tuesday’s induction was to familiarise personnel with departmental operations while aligning them with the principles of public service.
“We are welcoming you during a time when public trust in healthcare must be reinforced. We are hearing troubling reports, nationally and globally, of medical professionals betraying their oath and participating in unspeakable acts, including sexual assault and misconduct.
“Let me be clear, this government will not tolerate such behaviour. There is no place in our system for those who prey on the vulnerable,’ she said.
She went on to say that healthcare workers were protectors of life, not abusers of trust, and those who violated this sacred contract with society would face dismissal and the full force of the law.
“It gives me immense pride and joy to formally welcome all of you, 412, as healthcare professionals and those who will be healthcare workers to the family of public servants in the province. This is not just a warm reception. It’s a celebration of your triumphs and a call to purpose.
“You are the leaders who will shape tomorrow’s hospitals, clinics and policy reforms. We are not just investing in you, but we are entrusting you with the heartbeat of our people.”
INSIDE POLITICS