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Media Statement: Gauteng Department of Health halts its intention to downgrade commuted overtime of doctors

Published on April 04, 2025

For immediate release:
04 April 2025

The South African Medical Association Trade Union (SAMATU) is pleased to announce the successful outcome of a recent urgent meeting with the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH). The meeting, led by the Head of Department and the Deputy Director General, addressed the inflammatory issue of proposed changes in commuted overtime contracts of doctors. 

SAMATU challenged the proposed downgrading of commuted overtime contracts from Group D to Group C, and lower tiers, on the rationale that this will not only pose a negative impact of the welfare of doctors; it will negatively impact the quality of clinical care provided to patients.

We are delighted to report that the GDoH has acknowledged and conceded to the demands laid forth by SAMATU. The department has agreed to suspend the implementation of these proposed changes effective immediately, pending a collaborative process of consultation with labour, which would allow for a comprehensive review of this matter, including the welfare of doctors and clinical care practices. A time-frame of three months has been set to conclude the consultation processes.

During this interim period, SAMATU urges all doctors to continue their commuted overtime commitments, prioritising the delivery of quality patient care.

SAMATU once again reiterates that healthcare professionals should not be seen as mere adjuncts within the healthcare system; rather, they are quintessential pillars upon which quality healthcare delivery is founded. Their expertise and unwavering dedication are the lifeblood of our healthcare institutions, ensuring that communities receive the high standards of care that they rightfully deserve. It is paramount to acknowledge that healthcare professionals stand at the core of any effective healthcare system. Their well-being, voices, and professional insights are indispensable in shaping policies that impact every facet of healthcare delivery. When decisions are made that affect such a critical component of our society, it should be a given that these decisions and policies are formed with the involvement and insight of those who stand on the frontlines. Collaborative engagement with medical professionals is essential for the formulation of healthcare policies that are sustainable, equitable, and in the best interest of the health of our communities; especially as the implementation of the National Health Insurance unfolds.

We once again reassure doctors and the communities that are consumers of public healthcare services, that SAMATU's commitment to bettering the quality of public healthcare remains unchanged.

ENDS.

Issued by:
Dr Cedric Sihlangu
SAMATU General Secretary

Enquiries:
Bokang Motlhaga 
Media & Marketing Officer
069 586 8430