Stakeholders in South Africa’s health sector have raised alarms over budget cuts at the Gauteng Department of Health, with many state doctors yet to receive their overtime pay for April. The Minister of Health has formed a committee to review overtime policies, but delays in payments have sparked outrage among medical professionals.
Dr. Cedrick Sihlangu, General Secretary of the South African Medical Trade Union (SAMATU), confirmed that numerous doctors in hospitals such as George Mukhari and others linked to SMU-affiliated institutions have not been paid. He attributed the non-payment to alleged “glitches” in the e-government system, calling the situation “regrettable.”
The union has warned of possible labor withdrawal if payments are not resolved by May 15, emphasizing that forcing doctors to work without pay is unsustainable. Dr. Sihlangu also criticized broader systemic failures in Gauteng’s health administration, suggesting that placing the department under Section 100 intervention may be necessary.
The issue has raised concerns over patient care, particularly in emergency and oncology services, with fears that further budget cuts could worsen service delivery. The Gauteng Health Department has pledged to address the delays, but tensions remain high as doctors await overdue payments.
The situation highlights ongoing challenges in Gauteng’s health system, including unspent budgets and legal disputes over essential services. Stakeholders are urging urgent intervention to prevent further disruptions.
