The National Department of Health has completed the allocation of medical graduates eligible for the 2025 internship and community service cycle, marking a significant achievement for the healthcare system. Minister of Health Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi announced that 8,403 young health professionals have been successfully placed, including 2,108 medical interns and 6,295 community service officers, who will begin their duties in January 2025.

The placements cover various health categories, including doctors, radiographers, physiotherapists, psychologists, dentists, and pharmacists. 

Discussions are ongoing with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) and Border Management Authority to place 73 environmental health officers who remain unallocated.
A significant 6,740 applicants were assigned to one of their five preferred choices, with 768 others placed within their chosen provinces. Additionally, 1,520 special consideration cases were reviewed, and 1,399 applicants were successfully placed within their top five choices.

The allocation process, guided by the Internship and Community Service Programme (ICSP), emphasised transparency and stakeholder engagement. 

Provincial health departments, professional associations, and unions participated in a workshop in July 2024 to review placement guidelines and ensure a seamless process. Results were released on schedule, with final announcements made by late October.

Despite some applicants appealing their placements, 7,701 candidates have accepted their allocations. Provincial health departments are now preparing appointment letters for those placed, enabling them to plan for the upcoming year.

According to a statement issued by the Department, the initiative highlights the Department’s commitment to addressing the nation’s healthcare needs while supporting young professionals. It also reflects ongoing efforts to improve collaboration and ensure all graduates, including those yet to be placed, find opportunities to contribute to South Africa’s healthcare system.

Successful applicants can now celebrate their placements during the festive season, confident of their roles in the new year.

Watch the EWN interview with Luvuyo Bayeni,the Department of Health's Human Resource Chief Director


 

This story was compiled from various resources, including:

December 2028 | Department of Health, South Africa. (2024, November). Health Department concludes placement of medical interns and community service officers for the 2025 cycle. [Media Statement]. 


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