Concerns over shortage of nurses in SA

JOHANNESBURG - The CEO of Private hospital operator Life Healthcare has again flagged government’s slow pace in addressing the nursing shortage in the country.

Peter Wharton-Hood says the country’s ability to provide care is at risk if government does not prioritise nurse training.

READ: SA’s health emergency | Concern over critical nursing shortage

Earlier this week, Netcare CEO Richard Friedland also warned that the shortage of nurses threatens the provision of healthcare in both the public and private sectors.

Life Healthcare saw a nearly 13 percent rise in its first-half revenue, but its net profit slipped 8.2 percent.

The group owns 66 private hospitals in South Africa and has operations in Europe as well.