Groote Schuur Hospital welcomed 34 fresh-faced medical interns and four pharmacy interns this week.

Following a formal orientation on Monday December 30, the pharmacy and medical interns expressed great enthusiasm and eagerness to embark on their internship journey, starting January 1.

The pharmacy internships will be one year long while the medical internships are two years.

Over their two-year internship, the medical interns are expected to gain experience through supervised training in the various disciplines at Groote Schuur Hospital and Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital.

Following the completion of this period, these doctors are then required to serve a compulsory one-year community service, after which they can practice as independent practitioners. The community service year is important as it is an opportunity to perfect the skills gained during internship, whilst serving communities most in need and improving access to healthcare services.

Dr Shaheem De Vries, CEO of Groote Schuur Hospital, wished all new interns the best of luck as they embark on this exciting new chapter.

“This is an exciting journey as you step into a space that you have looked forward to as students. It is finally here! It is our hope that you remain present to who, what and why you are, to be patient with your career growth here, and to be connected to the hospital as a symbol of hope,” he said.

MEC for Health and Wellness, Mireille Wenger, said: “Groote Schuur Hospital is renowned for its excellence in competence, compassion and responsiveness. Remember, you are part of a team that will work towards a shared purpose, ensuring that every resident, especially the vulnerable, have access to quality care where they are, and when they need it.”

Three interns of this year’s cohort shared their views about joining the hospital and what they hope to achieve.

Ariel Raz, who will start off in paediatrics at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, feels honoured to be part of the hospital.

“There is a lot of history to this hospital, and it is a privilege to walk among the giants here. In terms of the orientation, I am very impressed. They have catered to all our needs and made us feel at home. I hope to grow as a person and as a healthcare practitioner. I want to gain knowledge in all the respective fields and contribute to the health system.”

De Waal Jansen Van Rensburg is a pharmacist intern.

De Waal Jansen Van Rensburg, a pharmacist intern, is excited to expand his knowledge and gain new insights.

“I just want to learn, and eager to see how a bigger government hospital works. Since pharmacy services are a vital part of the health system, I am really excited how all the healthcare workers work together.”

Neo Mashala, who aspires to become a neurosurgeon, is also excited to join Groote Schuur Hospital, which is renowned as one of the biggest hospitals in the country.

“I was fortunate to do my undergraduate and clinical training here. Overall, I want to use this opportunity not only to be a better doctor but also a person. I believe being here is a great opportunity to do that.”

Neo Mashala wants to become a neurosurgeon.

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