The impact of the July unrest on South Africa’s healthcare professionals was such that many had to reduce or stop practice, as well as concerns about the safety of themselves, their colleagues and their patients impacting on their mental wellbeing, found a Medical Protection Society survey.
In the survey of more than 500 healthcare professionals, two thirds (67%) of respondents said their practice had reduced in some way during the unrest, with 6% saying they stopped practice altogether due to themselves or their staff being too scared or unable to get to the practice. Half (50%) said they had lost income as a result of the unrest. While only 17% considered leaving the profession after the unrest, 61% said it had caused them to consider leaving South Africa to work in another country.
MPS – the leading protection organisation supporting around 30,000 healthcare professionals in South Africa – said the survey results are a stark reminder that during unsettling times, healthcare professionals require as much support as the patients they treat.
Dr Graham Howarth, Head of Medical Services – Africa said: “This survey was carried out following the immediate aftermath of the unrest, giving healthcare professionals time to reflect on the impact. While the challenges experienced certainly did not begin or end during the July unrest, the impact of this unsettling time on those who care for us cannot be overstated.
“Most communities in South Africa were affected in some way and it is perhaps unsurprising that two thirds of healthcare professionals said their practice had reduced in some way during the unrest. However, for healthcare professionals the unrest compounded existing stressors including the COVID-19 pandemic, high levels of abuse directed at doctors, and worsening mental well-being.
“Some survey respondents commented anecdotally that they had feared for their own lives and livelihoods during the unrest, others talked about the emotional distress of having to balance the needs of patients with the safety of their staff.
“It is particularly concerning that more than six out of ten healthcare professionals said the unrest caused them to consider leaving South Africa and practice elsewhere, particularly at a time when doctors are needed more than ever.
“MPS contacted members throughout South Africa during the unrest both to offer moral and practical support, including our independent, confidential counselling service, and reduced subscriptions if their work was impacted by either the unrest or COVID-19.
“While this support has been well received, the survey results are a stark reminder that during unsettling times, healthcare professionals require as much support as the patients they treat.”
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