Professor Harry Seftel dies, aged 94
Type of article: News
MedED Catalogue Reference: MGN006
Category: News | Obituary
Keywords: Obituary, Harry Seftel
Johannesburg, 4 November 2023, 09:00
It has been confirmed that Professor Harry Seftel has died in Johannesburg, South Africa. He was 94 years old.
Prof Seftel spent more than 50 years in the Department of Medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand. He was the professor of medicine and chief clinician at Hilbrow Hospital and head of the diabetes clinics at Hilbrow and Charlotte Maxeke Hospitals.
Renowned for his down-to-earth, common-sense approach to medicine, he was an advocate of public health long before it became codified in the medical curriculum. His shows on the SABC and 702 demystified medicine for many consumers, making him a beloved figure both among his medical colleagues and the public.
In a press statement released on the 3rd of December, President Rhamaphosa paid tribute to the Professor, stating:
"Prof Seftel’s passing at the end of an extended life with which he was blessed, is another instance of loss among a generation that defined the South Africa of the 20th century.
Prof Seftel’s life journey includes his university-days friendship with Nelson Mandela.
“Harry Seftel’s journey was one of continuous curiosity and discovery with the aim of assisting individuals and entire communities to make healthy lifestyle choices and enjoy a healthy life.
“He was a relentless achiever who passionately educated generations of medical practitioners and researchers. He will be remembered for sharing his knowledge in the most accessible and entertaining ways which endeared him to his students and millions of people who learned from him via public platforms.
“Harry Seftel was a national treasure whose love for his work and for the people of South Africa must be celebrated at this time of mourning and remembrance and must live on in the ethos of all health care professionals.”
The Prof's unique style of teaching, his engaging bedside manner and his complete commitment to the practice of medicine and his patients, left an indelible impression on many of us fortunate to have been taught by him.
The Medical Education Network extends its condolences to his family and collegues.
Hamba Khale Prof. Rest in Peace.
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