New head of KZN health department
FORMER Ngwelezana Hospital CEO and University of Zululand alumnus, Dr Sandile Tshabalala, has been appointed as new KZN Health’s Head of Department.
Tshabalala’s appointment comes almost two years after the resignation of the then HOD, Dr Sifiso Mtshali.
‘We are very pleased to have Dr Tshabalala on board. This department has been without a permanent head for nearly two years, which is something the province can ill-afford considering the magnitude of the department’s responsibilities,’ said Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane-Zulu.
‘He brings with him a wealth of leadership qualities and experience within the public health sector.’
Dr Tshabalala, who was born in Durban, holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Unizulu and Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery degrees from Medunsa.
His medical experience began when he was appointed as an intern at Ngwelezana Hospital in 1997, where he became a medical officer working in the intensive care unit and theatre, as well as a sessional doctor until 2008.
He was then appointed CEO of the hospital, a position he held until July, 2010.
He was then appointed as Medical Manager at Clairwood Hospital and later occupied the same position at Wentworth Hospital.
He also held the CEO position at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital from 2015 to 2017.
‘I am honoured and humbled being appointed to head the KwaZuluNatal Department of Health. I promise to discharge my duties with diligence and loyalty in the service of the people of the province,’ Dr Tshabalala said.
He said he is looking forward to implementing innovative programmes aimed at improving the overall health outcomes of the province.
These include the introduction and roll-out of an electronic patient record filing system, making healthcare facility managers and health district officials more accessible and accountable to the public.