A look at the future of Family Practice in South Africa

  • Pierre JT De Villiers South African Academy of Family Practice/Primary Care
  • F. David Schneider University of Texas HSC at San Antonio
  • Joshua Freeman University of Texas HSC at San Antonio
  • J Hugo University of the Free State

Abstract

This month we take a look at the future with the oublication of two thought-provoking articles. Many changes are taking place within the South African health care scene, which will determine the role of the generalist doctor in our health services and the future nature of medical education. What is the future of our speciality? As faculty members in three different programs in the last decade, we have noticed changes in the privileges sought by our graduates entering practice. Many do not want to deliver babies, do procedures for which they were trained,work in the lCU, or even have hospital practices at all. Some choose to limit their practices to children over age 2 or over age 12 and some do not want to care for children at all. What is the future of our discipline? The health care milieu is ripe for an increasing input and influence from General / Family Practice Implementation of government policy for public and private health care, as well as changes at medical schools, creates an interesting picture. And the shape, colour and place of the generalist doctor are being drawn in at this time.

Author Biographies

Pierre JT De Villiers, South African Academy of Family Practice/Primary Care
Editor
F. David Schneider, University of Texas HSC at San Antonio
MD, MSPH
Joshua Freeman, University of Texas HSC at San Antonio
MD
J Hugo, University of the Free State
MB, ChB, MFamMed (UOVS) Chairman of the Family Medicine Subcommittee of the Medical and Dental Professional Board.
Issue
Vol 21 No 2 (1999)
Section
Forum
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