## Recent  

**2022**: RuDASA alarms Zithulele Hospital crisis, urges Health Department to sustain rural healthcare support.

**2021 (December)**: RuDASA criticizes Health Department's quarantine guideline withdrawal, urges swift reversal
    for healthcare service safeguarding.

**2021 (December)**: RuDASA worries over COVID-19 isolation rules, urges guideline review amid Omicron-driven
    staff shortages.

**2021 (June)**: RuDASA suggests universal vaccine days for rural areas, aiming to immunize entire communities
    in one day, reducing transport costs and improving accessibility.

**2020**: RuDASA pushes for rural hospital oxygen upgrade amid COVID-19, stressing supplies, monitoring, and
    High Flow Nasal Oxygen.

**2019**: RuDASA seeks support for North West Province doctors, advocating for resource addressing and Prof
    Ebrahim Variava's reinstatement.

## Older

**2016**: Rural-proofing the overtime policy for health care practitioners in Eastern Cape.

**2012**: Rural-proofing the National Health Insurance.

**2011**: RuDASA contributed to the development of a comprehensive set of objectives and activities 
          aimed at enhancing access to human resources in rural health, adopted as official policy by 
          the Department of Health - Strategic Priority 8 of the new National Human Resources for Health
          Strategy.

**2011**: Rural-proofing the Primary Health Care Revitalisation Strategy.

**2011**: Letter to the Minister of Health: Proposal for key measures to address the crisis in human 
          resources for health in South Africa, with a focus on rural health care.

**2011**: RuDASA and RHAP join SAMA’s demands for urgent safety measures to protect our health care 
          workers from assault.

**2010**: Press Release: Rural communities disadvantaged by KZN Community Service Medical Officer 
          placements for 2010.

**2010**: Letter to KZN Treasury and Department of Health: Freezing of posts is against the spirit of the ten-point-plan.

**2010**: RuDASA statement on public sector strike.

**2010**: Open letter to the President: shadow a rural doctor for a day.

**2009**: Press Release: The government''s OSD proposal is anti-rural.

Press Statements

### [RHC Website](https://www.ruralhealthconference.org.za/)
Since 1996 RuDASA organised an annual rural doctors conference in a rural town which attracted a range of rural health professionals from all over the country. In 2014 it became the Rural Health Conference as it had far outgrown it's original brief, and in 2017 it became a joint project with RuReSA, PACASA and RuNurSA.

The conference is a much-anticipated, vibrant forum which combines a mixture of sessions ranging from clinical skills updates for and by a wide range of health professionals to emotive discussions and workshops on issues such as justice and equity. The conference is ideal for exchanging ideas and is ideal for networking. Younger colleagues and students are also encouraged to attend.

A highlight of the conference is the gala Dinner and Award Ceremony in which doctors, nurses, clinical associates and therapists are recognised for their outstanding role in rural health. 

RHC2016 Saturday 6th - 9th August 2016, Grahamstown, Eastern Cape.  
**Theme :** Rural Health 20/20: through the looking glass of the past, the present and the future.      
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme16](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nNcLC3XHPaehRqavtGvW8exaCQOTW7Xa/view?usp=sharing)  

RHC2015 23-26 September 2015 – Dunkeld Country Estate, Dullstroom, Mpumalanga.  
**Theme :** Humane Health Care 'Bringing the heart back into health care practice'.  
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme15](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1J8Agdu1yAMh4uF08CX8801SU4CJPrhJN/view?usp=sharing)

RHC2014 21-24 September 2014 - Worcester, Western Cape.  
**Theme :** Building Resilience in Facing Rural Health Realities.  

RHC2013 8-10 August 2013 - St.Lucia, Kwazulu-Natal.  
**Theme :** Going back to the roots.  
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme13](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1D6iwErAr3-NzfJCDtxpUcXti_R_qES2s/view?usp=sharing)  

RHC2012 6 - 7 September 2012 - Mitchell’s Plain District Hospital, Cape Town Metro District Health Services and School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town.   
**Theme :** Does primary care have a role in meeting the health care needs of transgender persons?   
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme12](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E0s4jMiW2d5zfxjAMklS0qTrojMh6SjM/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104395152309895524523&rtpof=true&sd=true)

RHC2010 26 - 28 August 2010 - The Royal Villas, Ezulwini Valley, Swaziland.  
**Theme :** Inspiration without Borders.  
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme10](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1CDioFNEvGuJfO0yX7NPqEIrxSmpoKY7R/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104395152309895524523&rtpof=true&sd=true)

RHC2009 27th - 29th August 2009 - Broederstroom, North West Province.  
**Theme :** The Challenge of Chronic Diseases.  
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme09](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1U5R7lHLGkByEkG1hD0RsXoJZGGN2lIqD/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104395152309895524523&rtpof=true&sd=true)

RHC2008 18 - 20 September 2008 - Beaufort West, Karoo, Western Cape.  
**Theme :** The Rural Health TEAM – Together Each Achieves More.  
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme08](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hW9p9Hufuw-WRgrytw8JCsCdrzb_u5Z-/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104395152309895524523&rtpof=true&sd=true)

RHC2007 23 -25 August 2007 - Forever Resorts, Badplaas,
Mpumalanga.  
**Theme :** recruitment, training and retention of healthcare professionals in underserved areas.  
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme07](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SXp4enfNl9VadLfZrnc5Nv3feZLBGK_1/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104395152309895524523&rtpof=true&sd=true)

RHC2006 10 & 11 August 2006 - Canefields Country House
Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal.  
**Theme :** inspiring rural health.  
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme06](https://docs.google.com/document/d/13q3laGjYDxaV2vHX1cJ9HHoNO6EvW0ft/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104395152309895524523&rtpof=true&sd=true)
.  

RHC2005 7th - 9th August - Bulungula Backpackers
Wild Coast, Transkei.

RHC2004 21 –23 September 2004 - Ocean Conference Centre, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.  
**Theme :** Towards better rural health care.    
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme04](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jMRpK5XDu_I2mW0Lc0Rxkz9I_rj1Udcj/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104395152309895524523&rtpof=true&sd=true)

RHC2003 7th - 8th August 2003 - Boland College, Worcester.  
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme03](https://docs.google.com/document/d/12Bh2kyjXZRcUebv16JV47KubFbGKX0SX/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104395152309895524523&rtpof=true&sd=true)

RHC2002 9th - 11th August 2002 - Sabie, enhlanzeni, Mpumalanga.  
**Theme :** Rural Practice: The Healthy Adventure.  
**link to the conference programme :** [Programme02](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VNLduzQE92_5ajWrlbHp5DvXMC8ODZGD/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=104395152309895524523&rtpof=true&sd=true)

Rural Health Conference

**Rural Health Campaign Report (2015)**
[Rural Health Campaign Report (2015)](/pdfs/rural-mental-health/rural%20mental%20health%20campaign%20report%202015.pdf)

Rural Mental Health

## Rural Policy
**RuDASA & RHAP submission on NSP**
[RuDASA & RHAP submission on NSP](/pdfs/rural-policy-hr/RUDASA_RHAP-submission-on-NSP-Draft-Zero_13-September-20111%20(1).pdf)

**RuDASA & Partners GreenPaper**
[RuDASA & Partners GreenPaper](/pdfs/rural-policy-hr/NHI_GreenPaper-RuDASA%20and%20partners_11%20December%202011.pdf)

## Rural Human Resources
**WHO Global Policy recommendations for Rural Recruitment**
[WHO Global Policy recommendations for Rural Recruitment](/pdfs/rural-policy-hr/WHOGlobalPolicyRecommendationsruralrecruitmentandrete.pdf)

**HRH Strategy for Health Sector**
[HRH Strategy for Health Sector](/pdfs/rural-policy-hr/hrh%20for%20sa%20-%20strategy%20for%20health%20sector%202012-2017.pdf)

**Understanding the Factors Influencing Rural Health Worker Employment in South Africa**
[Understanding the Factors Influencing Rural Health Worker Employment in South Africa](/pdfs/rural-policy-hr/UnderstandingthefactorsinfluencinghealthworkeremploymentdecisionsinSouthAfrica.pdf)

**WHO - Global Policy Recommendations for Rural Recruitment and Employment**
[WHO - Global Policy Recommendations for Rural Recruitment and Employment](/pdfs/rural-policy-hr/WHOGlobalPolicyRecommendationsruralrecruitmentandrete.pdf)

Rural Policy & HR

**Rural Health Services deserve to be as good as urban service delivery, with the same ratio of health workers, resources, and care pathways.** 
RuDASA advocates for good quality rural health services at Local, Provincial and National Fora. There are a number of resources on NDoH Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs), National Core Standards (NCS), and Tools for Quality Improvement (QI). We recognise that you may be working in less than optimal situations and have identified organisations that can advocate for you when we cannot help you. Remember you can VOICE concerns on the Forum or contact the RuDASA Executive directly.

## Getting Help for Advocacy
 
### The VOICE Project
The Voice Project is part of RHAP and aims to improve access to quality rural health care by increasing the number and quality of healthcare provider change agents. As part of this initiative, RHAP provides free of charge CPD accredited Advocacy workshops in institutions of learning and at facility level.

### The StopStockOuts Project
The [Stop Stockouts Project (SSP)](https://whistleblowerhouse.org) is a consortium of initiated by Section 27, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), the Rural Health Advocacy Project (RHAP), Rural Health Doctors Association of Southern Africa (RuDASA), the Southern African HIV Clinician Society and the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) dedicated to assisting the thousands of people whose lives are threatened by the chronic shortages of essential medicines and children’s vaccines in South Africa. They have an annual survey and you can contact them to report Stockouts.

### SECTION27
[SECTION27](https://section27.org.za) is a public interest law centre that seeks to achieve substantive equality and social justice in South Africa. Guided by the principles and values in the Constitution, SECTION27 uses law, advocacy, legal literacy, research and community mobilisation to achieve access to healthcare services and basic education. SECTION27 aims to achieve structural change and accountability to ensure the dignity and equality of everyone.

### The Whistleblower House
RuDASA believes that when the same problems continue over long periods of time, and having exhausted "normal channels" for resolving those problems, then a doctor has the moral and ethical duty to bring those problems to the attention of the public, as they affect "health for all". [The Whistleblower House](https://whistleblowerhouse.org) is a non-profit organisation that acknowledges, supports, and advocates for whistleblowers who find themselves in this plight.

Systems & Advocacy

A major part of RuDASA's function is to provide support for doctors working in remote areas; from networking to advocacy on key issues. Here you will find a growing collection of resources and references and information on  our partners and projects.  
RuDASA members can also check out our [Rural Onboarding](https://rudasa.org.za/resources/thrive/onboarding) Section for an online, structured orientation program with complete resources  for clinical rural health care. 

If you use our resources please consider donating to RuDASA to help us keep you up to date

| Donate R100.00 to RuDASA   |  Donate R1,000.00 to RuDASA   |  Donate another amount
| :-----: | :-----: |  :-----:  |
|[![Donate Now with PayFast](https://my.payfast.io/images/buttons/DonateNow/Primary-Large-DonateNow.png)](https://payf.st/95bur) | [![Donate Now with PayFast](https://my.payfast.io/images/buttons/DonateNow/Primary-Large-DonateNow.png)](https://payf.st/9e72r) |  [![Donate to bank](https://my.payfast.io/images/buttons/DonateNow/Primary-Large-DonateNow.png)](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jrEei9p7MX1JZ8Zky8KU1fN27DL0qBDM/view?usp=sharing)

<span>Thriving in Rural Health looks at three aspects important to thriving as a doctor in a rural health setting: </span>

* Tools to strengthen resilience in yourself and your colleagues
* Simplified approaches to improve and change inefficient systems in the workplace
* Practical and legal aspects of healthcare worker reporting (VOICE)

**National Health Act (2004)**  
[National Health Act (2004)](/pdfs/acts-policies/1.%20national%20health%20act%202004.pdf)

**National Health Act Booklet Summary (2013)**  
[National Health Act Booklet Summary (2013)](/pdfs/acts-policies/2.%20National%20Health%20Act%20Booklet_Summary%202013.pdf)

**National Health Amendment Act (2013)**  
[National Health Amendment Act (2013)](/pdfs/acts-policies/3.%20National%20Health%20Amendment%20Act%202013.pdf)

**NDOH Strategic (10 Point) Plan 201011-201213 (2010)**  
[NDOH Strategic (10 Point) Plan 201011-201213 (2010)](/pdfs/acts-policies/4.%20NDOH%20Strategic%20Plan%20201011-201213%20(2010)(10%20Point%20Plan).pdf)

**NSP on HIV, STIs and TB (2012-16).pdf**  
[NSP on HIV, STIs and TB (2012-16).pdf](/pdfs/acts-policies/5.%20NSP%20on%20HIV,%20STIs%20and%20TB%202012%20-16%20(full).pdf)

**NHI First 18 months (2013)**  
[NHI First 18 months (2013)](/pdfs/acts-policies/6.%20NHI%20First%2018%20months%202013.pdf)

**NSDA Outcome 2 Health (2010)**  
[NSDA Outcome 2 Health (2010)](/pdfs/acts-policies/7.%20NSDA%20Outcome%202%20Health%202010.pdf)

**Access to Information - Department of Health**  
[Access to Information - Department of Health](/pdfs/acts-policies/Access%20to%20Information_Department%20of%20Health.pdf)

**NHI GreenPaper RuDASA and partners (11 December 2011)**  
[NHI GreenPaper RuDASA and partners (11 December 2011)](/pdfs/acts-policies/NHI_GreenPaper-RuDASA%20and%20partners_11%20December%202011.pdf)

**RUDASA & RHAP - Submission on NSP (13 September 2011)**  
[RUDASA & RHAP - Submission on NSP (13 September 2011)](/pdfs/acts-policies/RUDASA_RHAP-submission-on-NSP-Draft-Zero_13-September-20111%20(1).pdf)

Acts & Policies

*These courses are recommended by our Rural Champions as Good Practice for working in rural hospitals. They range from short courses to full academic Diploma's or post graduate Degrees. Courses may be online or provincial or local events.*

## Rural Health Conference
### We Speak Your Language!
This annual conference is a vibrant event that focuses on rural issues, rural advocacy and rural best practice.  

Our 4 permanent sub themes are: Building Teams, Health Systems, Community Engagement, and Policy and Practice. The conference is unique as it is multidisciplinary and we all learn from each other. Go to one conference and you will keep coming back.
**[Find out more](/resources/activities/rural-health-conference)**
---
### Best Practice Guidelines Online
* RuDASA's [Cutting Edge Rural Medicine](/resources)
* University of Pretoria's [Essential Steps in the Management of Obstetric Emergencies (ESMOE)](https://www.up.ac.za/centre-for-maternal-fetal-newborn-and-child-healthcare/article/2819785/esmoepublic-downloads/)
* University of Pretoria's [Department of Family Medicine](https://www.up.ac.za/family-medicine/article/2714809/postgraduate)

### Short Courses & eLearning
* Foundation for Professional Development e-learning's [range of courses](https://www.foundation.co.za/clinical-courses)

### Emergency Care
* Short Courses in Emergency Medicine at [UCT & SU (Broken Link)](http://www.emct.info/short-courses.html) or at the [Academy of Advanced Life Support (Gauteng)](https://www.advancedlifesupport.co.za/courses/), KwaZulu Natal, NW.

* Advanced Life Support Training Centres's [Directory](https://resus.co.za/subpages/Training/Advanced_Life_Support_Training_Centres.html#)
* Diploma with [The Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA) (Broken Link)](https://www.cmsa.co.za/view_exam.aspx?QualificationID=60)
* Postgraduate programmes at 
    * [University of Cape Town](http://www.emergencymed.uct.ac.za/em/programmes/pgdip) 
    * [Stellenbosch University](http://www.sun.ac.za/english/faculty/healthsciences/Emergency%20Medicine/Pages/Postgraduate.aspx) 
    * [WITS](https://www.wits.ac.za/clinicalmed/departments/family-medicine-and-primary-care/emergency-medicine/)

### Maternal & Child Health
* Limpopo Initiative for Newborn Care's eLearning on [Neonates and New Borns](http://www.lincare.co.za/)

### Cancer & Palliative Care
* Diploma or masters: 
    * [University of Cape Town](http://www.publichealth.uct.ac.za/phfm_postgraduate-diploma-palliative-medicine) 
    * [Stellenbosch University](http://www.sun.ac.za/english/faculty/healthsciences/Family%20Medicine%20and%20Primary%20Care/short-courses) 

### Family Medicine
* Diplomas or masters: [Stellenbosch University](http://www.sun.ac.za/english/faculty/healthsciences/Family%20Medicine%20and%20Primary%20Care/Pages/Postgraduate.aspx), [UCT (Broken Link)](http://www.publichealth.uct.ac.za/sites/default/files/image_tool/images/8/PG%20Diploma%20in%20FamMed%20_2018.6.26.pdf), [UFS](https://www.ufs.ac.za/health/departments-and-divisions/family-medicine-home), [UP](https://www.up.ac.za/family-medicine), [WITS](https://www.wits.ac.za/clinicalmed/departments/family-medicine-and-primary-care/), [UKZN](https://familymedicine.ukzn.ac.za/studyopportunities/), [SMU](https://www.smu.ac.za/schools/medicine/school-of-medicine-academic-programmes/)

### TB/HIV Management  
* Short courses: [SAHIVSoc](https://sahivsoc.org/#!)
* Diploma in HIV Management: CMSA, SU  UCT, UP

### Public Health
* Public Resources: [UWC](https://www.uwc.ac.za/study/faculties-and-programmes/)
* Short courses: Winter or Summer School UWC, [SU](http://www0.sun.ac.za/summerschools/ipsu/public-health/)
* Short courses and Masters: [WITS](https://www.wits.ac.za/publichealth/), [UP](https://www.up.ac.za/school-of-health-systems-and-public-health), [UNISA](https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Register-to-study-through-Unisa/Subjects-&-modules/All-subjects/PUBLIC-HEALTH), [UWC](https://www.uwc.ac.za/), [UL](https://www.ul.ac.za/index.php?Entity=Public%20Health), [UFH](https://www.ufh.ac.za/faculties/healthsciences/public-health)

Courses

## Public Resources on COVID-19
*If you would like more information about COVID-19, consider signing up for our [learning portal](/signUp)*

###### [Our COVID-19 Public Library (Broken Link)](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/14FCznn2D6BzzfZOcuoZ3e3B4rb8F5qFr)

COVID-19

**Labour Relations covers information on overtime, remunerative work outside the public sector (RWOPS), disciplinary and grievance procedures, and where to go for help if you have a labour relations problem.**

## Getting Help for Labour Relations Issues
 
### Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration
The Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) is a dispute resolution body established in terms of the Labour Relations Act, 66 of 1995 (LRA). It is an independent body, does not belong to and is not controlled by any political party, trade union or business. It was established to provide the country with an accessible, user-friendly and, above all, inexpensive labour dispute resolution system. Workers who have allegedly been unfairly dismissed or the victims of various unfair labour practices are able to approach the CCMA alone or with certain categories of recognised representatives in order to seek redress for workplace wrongs.

[Email](mailto:info@ccma.org.za) | **Phone (011) 377-6650**


### Public Service Commission
The Public Service Commission (PSC) covers personnel procedures relating to recruitment, transfers, promotions and dismissals, investigates grievances of employees in the public service concerning official acts or omissions and advises national and provincial organs of state regarding personnel practices in the public service.

[Email](mailto:info@opsc.gov.za) | **Phone 012 352 1000**

### Public Service Coordinating Bargaining Council
Public service bargaining councils, namely, the Public service coordinating bargaining council (PSCBC) and the Public health and social development sectoral bargaining council (PHSDSBC) are the fora for negotiating salaries for public service employees. SAMA is the official organisation representing doctors on these councils.  
[Website](https://pscbc.co.za/)

### Department of Employment and Labour
The Department of Employment and Labour strives to reduce unemployment, poverty and inequality in South Africa by developing a set of policies and programmes aimed at job creation and economic efficiency and equality, as well as sound labour relations
[Website](http://www.labour.gov.za/documentcenter)

### South African Medical Association
The South African Medical Association (SAMA) employs well trained Labour Relations advisors who advise, represent and engage various employers, on behalf of affected members throughout the country. Their primary role and function is to prevent and resolve employment complaints and disputes; with the following issues: Grievances, Disciplinary matters, Unfair labour practices and dismissals disputes, Unfair discrimination and employment equity matters, and Litigation.
The Trade Union Task Team addresses conditions of service and remuneration of salaried doctors and is particularly active in representing doctors - collectively and individually - in terms of labour relations legislation and negotiations: Terms and conditions of employment; salaries, benefits and allowances, Policy proposals, reviews and monitoring.  
[Email](mailto:labour@samedical.org) | **Phone 012 481 2160** or **012 481 2075**

Labour Relations

## Hospital and Treatment Guidelines
**Standard Treatment Guidlines and Essential Medicines List**
[Standard Treatment Guidlines and Essential Medicines List](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/Standard%20treatment%20guidlines%20and%20essential%20medicines%20list.pdf)

**STG and EML Hospital Adult (2012)**
[STG and EML Hospital Adult (2012)](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/STG%20and%20EML_Hospital_Adult_2012c.pdf)

## PHC General
**SAASP Antibiotic Guidelines (2014)**
[SAASP Antibiotic Guidelines (2014)](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/saasp_antibiotic_guidelines_2014.compressed.pdf)

**National Contraception and Fertility Planning Clinical Guidelines (2012)**
[National Contraception and Fertility Planning Clinical Guidelines (2012)](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/national%20contraception%20and%20fertility%20planning-clinical-guidelines%202012%20.pdf)

**PC 101 Guideline v2 (2013-14)**
[PC 101 Guideline v2 (2013-14)](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/PC%20101%20Guideline%20v2%202013%2014.pdf)

**STINDoH Guidelines Book (2008)**
[STINDoH Guidelines Book (2008)](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/STINDoHGuidelinesBook2008Edited.pdf)

## Quality Improvement Guidelines
**National Core Standards (2011)**
[National Core Standards (2011)](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/1.%20National%20Core%20Standards%202011.pdf)

**Quality Improvement Guide (2012)**
[Quality Improvement Guide (2012)](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/2.%20Quality%20Improvement%20Guide%202012.pdf)

**National Complaints Management Protocol (May 2013)**
[National Complaints Management Protocol (May 2013)](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/3.%20National%20Complaints%20Management%20Protocol%20_May%202013.pdf)

**NIMART peads and Adult Mentoring File Audit Tool**
[NIMART peads and Adult Mentoring File Audit Tool](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/4.%20NIMART%20peads%20and%20Adult%20mentoring%20file%20audit%20tool.xlsx)

**NIMART peads and Adult Mentoring File Audit Tool**
[NIMART peads and Adult Mentoring File Audit Tool](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/5.%20TBHIV%20Register_Audit_Tool_v11.xlsx)

**Register Audit Tool - ITECH SA SURE SOP with Excel Tool**
[Register Audit Tool - ITECH SA SURE SOP with Excel Tool](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/6.%20Register%20Audit%20tool_%20ITECH_SA%20SURE_SOP%20with%20Excel%20Tool.docx)

## Drug Supply Management
**National Drug Policy (1996)**
[National Drug Policy (1996)](/pdfs/phc-guidelines/National%20Drug%20Policy%201996.pdf)

PHC & Guidelines

## Quick Links &amp; Fast Facts
Here are a list of stats and quick links to research
* [National Health Amendment Bill (2019)](https://www.gov.za/sites/default/files/gcis_document/201903/b8-2019healthbill.pdf)
* [Standard Treatment Guidelines (2020)](http://www.kznhealth.gov.za/pharmacy/PHC-STG-2020.pdf)
* [Gov - Stats SA](https://www.statssa.gov.za/?cat=27)
* [Human Resources for Health](https://human-resources-health.biomedcentral.com/articles)
* [WHO Africa - Articles](https://www.afro.who.int/)
* [WHO South Africa - Statistics](https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/countries/country-details/GHO/south-africa?countryProfileId=e5bf5e3c-86a3-421f-89cc-18d787c36968)
* [Heath Systems Trust - SA Health Review](https://www.hst.org.za/publications/Pages/SouthAfricanHealthReview.aspx#:~:text=The%20South%20African%20Health%20Review%20(SAHR)%20is%20an%20accredited%20peer,apartheid%20health%20system....)
* [Heath Systems Trust - District Health Barometer](https://www.hst.org.za/publications/Pages/HSTDistrictHealthBarometer.aspx)

## General Research PDFs
**WHO - SA Country Health Fact Sheet**
[WHO - SA Country Health Fact Sheet](/pdfs/research-quick-links/SACountyHealthFactSheet.pdf)

**WHO - SA Health Profile (2011)**
[WHO - SA Health Profile (2011)](/pdfs/research-quick-links/WHOSAHealthProfile2011.pdf)

Research & Statistics

**When you need help in a hurry here are some quick links to specialist in clinical care.**
### VULA
VULA is an app that makes it easy to refer patients to specialists. We put primary healthcare workers directly in touch with on-call specialists. Currently covering : ophthalmology, cardiology, orthopeadics, burns, and HIV but always expanding.

The App can be downloaded from [**Google Play**](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cobi.vula&hl=en_ZA&gl=US) and [**iTunes**](https://apps.apple.com/za/app/vula-medical-referral/id898174360)

### The Medicines Information Centre
The Medicines Information Centre (MIC) situated within the Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine at the University of Cape Town is the largest and only clinically-based medicine information centre in South Africa. In collaboration with the Foundation for Professional Development and USAID/PEPFAR, the MIC provides a toll-free national HIV & TB hotline to all health care workers in South Africa for patient treatment related enquiries including PrEP. 
Call **0800 212506** or **021 406 6782**. Alternatively send an SMS or “Please Call Me” to **071 840 1572**. This service is free.

Telemedicine

*Community engagement is about understanding and working with your local community to improve health services or reducing the barriers to health in that area. This may be through a Clinic or Hospital Committee, the Ward Councillors and Traditional Leaders, Traditional Healers and others active nearby; as well as national organisations representing Patients Rights.*

## RHAP
RuDASA is a founder of RHAP and RHAP often represents us at National Meetings advocating for better health services, and better health resources.

The Rural Health Advocacy Project is a leading health advocacy organisation based in Johannesburg, advocating for equitable access to quality health care for rural communities in the whole of South Africa. Informed by the voices of rural healthcare workers and communities on the ground, partner organisations, stakeholders and research, RHAP conducts advocacy, generates debate, monitors implementation of health policies in rural areas, supports pro-equity government interventions, and rural-proofs policies to ensure that they are in tune with rural realities. 

## SECTION27 
SECTION27 is a public interest law centre that seeks to achieve substantive equality and social justice in South Africa. They work in the field of access to health care, good governance and accountability with the NDoH and private health care. Health professionals and communities can contact Section 27 to alert them to service delivery problems.

## ECHCAC
RuDASA is part of the Eastern Cape Health Crisis Action Coalition (ECHCAC), a group of organisations and individuals who are campaigning to fix the Eastern Cape health system which has collapsed in many parts of the province in 2012. They  drive the campaign to fix health systems in the province, such as the lack of Emergency Medical Services in rural areas, by lobbying and working with the EC DoH.

## TAC
Today the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) continues to represent users of the public healthcare system in South Africa, and to campaign and litigate on critical issues related to the quality of and access to healthcare.Through its branches and members the TAC monitors thousands of clinics and hospitals. Its members are the people who need the public health system to work, so they are the first to notice when it doesn’t. In addition to the large national campaigns, the local activism of the TAC’s members is the true life-blood of the organisation.

Rural Advocacy Partners

We are developing our Rural Champion's and Rural Buddy systems. In the meantime here are some rural specific organisations and journals.

Whats a **Rural champion**? These are rural veterans willing to share their knowledge of DoH systems and how to use the systems as well as giving advice about "what to do" in clinical situations.

The **Rural Buddies** is an email or WhatsApp Group of RuDASA members in your District.

For support on specific conditions go to the Clinical Resources to find associations and organisations working in that clinical field.

## Centres for Rural Health

### Ukwanda Centre for Rural Health
The [Ukwanda Centre for Rural Health (Broken Link)](https://blogs.sun.ac.za/ukwanda/) vision is to train health care professionals with applicable knowledge and hands on experience of the health issues facing rural and underserved communities. Ukwanda’s mission is to focus on making a difference to rural health care through empowering students, health workers and communities for wellness.

### Wits Centre for Rural Health
The [Wits Centre for Rural Health (CRH)](https://www.wits.ac.za/health/research-entities/centre-for-rural-health/about-us/about-us/) is an academic centre with a particular focus on 4 key areas of rural health advocacy, teaching, research and policy through support and sustainability. Together with partnerships and communities, the CRH aims to foster high quality rural health care through:Service Training Advocacy Research, and Sustainable growth.

The Centre is committed to improving the health care offered to impoverished people living in rural and underserved areas. Including research and programmes in Health Systems Strengthening, Human Resources for Health and Health and Social Justice.

## Search for Rural Journal Articles
### The Rural Health Research Gateway
The [Rural Health Research Gateway](https://www.ruralhealthresearch.org/publications) provide easy and timely access to research and findings of the FORHP-funded Rural Health Research Centers, 1997-present. Their goal is to help move new research findings of the Rural Health Research Centers to various end users as quickly and efficiently as possible. The site can be used to find:

* Completed rural health research [products and journal articles](https://www.ruralhealthresearch.org/publications)
* Information about the r[esearch centers](https://www.ruralhealthresearch.org/centers)
* Information about [individual researchers](https://www.ruralhealthresearch.org/researchers)
* Current research center [projects](https://www.ruralhealthresearch.org/projects)

### Rural and Remote Health
[Rural and Remote Health (RRH)](https://www.rrh.org.au/) is an open-access international academic journal serving rural and remote communities and publishing articles by rural health practitioners, educators, researchers and policy makers. The African section is committed to innovative approaches to enhance information sharing amongst the health care community in rural Africa.


## International Contacts & Journals
### WONCA
The [WONCA Working Party on Rural Practice (RuralWONCA)](https://www.globalfamilydoctor.com/) is an active network of rural family doctors and rural academics from each of the world's regions: Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Australasia/Pacific. Members of the working party are expected to be engaged and active in the organisation and are selected after presenting to the Working Party Council, usually or before one of our [WONCA World Rural Health conferences](https://www.globalfamilydoctor.com/Conferences/WONCAWorldRuralHealthConference2022.aspx). Their vision is health for all rural people around the world. They also have a [rural resource repository](https://ruralwonca.org/).

### Rural Seeds
[Rural Seeds](https://www.ruralseeds.net/) is a network made up of students and young doctors with the aim of being a worldwide network of training awareness and guidance for rural practice, using the guidance and knowledge available on RuralWONCA and its members.

### National Rural Health Alliance
The [National Rural Health Alliance](https://www.ruralhealth.org.au/about) is the peak national body working to improve the health of Australians living in rural and remote areas. The NRHA is comprised of twenty-four Member Bodies, each of which is a national organisation in its own right. The twenty-four represent both the consumers of health services and the health professionals providing service to non-metropolitan areas.

### National Rural Health Association
The [National Rural Health Association](https://www.ruralhealth.us/about-nrha) is a member-driven national organization whose mission is to improve the health of rural Americans and populations through appropriate and equitable health care services as well as to assist its members in providing leadership on rural issues through advocacy, communications, education, and research.

Organisations for Rural Clinicians

**[RuDASA Students Facebook](https://web.facebook.com/groups/121981078714?_rdc=2&_rdr)**
We are proud of the students developing health clubs to bring together students interested in rural health! 

If your university or College has a health club and would like to be part of RuDASA please [Sign up](/signUp).

Student Health Clubs we work closely with are: 
* [Rural Support Network](https://web.facebook.com/RuralSupportNetwork/?_rdc=1&_rdr) at UCT
* [Wits Rural Health Club](https://web.facebook.com/wits.rural/?ref=page_internal&_rdc=1&_rdr) 

Other links are: 
* Walter Sisulu University [Rural Advocates for Health](https://twitter.com/wsurah3)
* [Tuks Rural Health Society](https://tuksruralhealth.wixsite.com/trhs)
* [UFS Medical Students Association](https://web.facebook.com/ufsmsa/?_rdc=1&_rdr)
* UKZN students have a clinic project at [Happy Valley](https://web.facebook.com/happyvalleyclinicukzn/?_rdc=1&_rdr)

**Health Systems Trust (HST)**  

HST provides an electronic health information service by hosting electronic discussion forums and mailing lists to facilitate information sharing, communication, and networking around broad and strategic public health issues, locally and internationally.

HST has two email discussion groups you may like to join:
* [Drug Policy & Practice](mailto:druginfo-subscribe@lists.hst.org.za) 
* [Health & Human Rights](mailto:hhrnet-subscribe@lists.hst.org.za)

**60 percent**  

Within the southern African context it is believed that those infected by HIV are 60% women. 60percent endeavours to share relevant information related to HIV/AIDS within a gender, women's rights and sexual and reproductive health and rights lens through the continuum of prevention, treatment and care. This is the discussion link:  
* [60percent (Broken Link)](http://lists.hst.org.za/mailman/listinfo/60percent)
* [email us](mailto:60percent-subscribe@lists.hst.org.za)

Student Rural Health Clubs

**Please note that RuDASA unfortunately does not have funds for scholarships but you could try crowdfunding!**

RuDASA supports the concept of scholarship schemes for health sciences students that are linked to rural districts, as a long-term strategy for the recruitment and retention of doctors and other health care professionals. We advocate for provincial bursaries to be devolved to local level so that such linking can take place. This is based on the fact that local research has confirmed the international findings that people from rural areas are more likely to practice there. Pilot schemes have also already been developed and provide a model for this. 2 pilot schemes have been initiated:

* The [Friends of Mosvold Scholarship Scheme](https://www.umthomboyouth.org.za/what-we-do/the-rural-challenge) for students from area of Ingwavuma, KwaZulu-Natal
* The [Wits Initiative for Rural Health Education](https://www.wits.ac.za/health/research-entities/centre-for-rural-health/projects/wits-initiative-for-rural-health-education-wirhe/)

Should you wish to develop a similar programme or support these scholarship schemes through direct contributions or assistance with fundraising efforts, please [contact us](/contact).

### The Rural Education Access Programme (REAP)
[REAP](https://reap.org.za/what-we-do/) assists young people from low income households in marginalised rural communities in South Africa to access and succeed in post-school education and training opportunities.

Scholarships

# Hello Students!

**If you would like to do a rural elective but are not sure where to go then send us an email. We have a list of hospitals willing to take students. We can also circulate your email request on our members forum.**

### At the moment we have the following hospitals our Elective List:

* EC: Adelaide & [Zithulele](http://www.zithulele.org/) Hospitals
* KZN: Bethesda, [Manguzi](http://www.kznhealth.gov.za/manguzihospital.htm), [Mosvold](http://www.kznhealth.gov.za/mosvoldhospital.htm), [Mseleni](https://www.kznhealth.gov.za/mselenihospital.htm) & [Stanger](http://www.kznhealth.gov.za/gjgmrh.htm) Hospitals
* MP: [Barberton](http://www.mpuhealth.gov.za/Barberton%20Hospitals.html) & [Middelburg](https://web.facebook.com/pages/Middelburg-Provincial-Hospital/1586179001449296?_rdc=1&_rdr) Hospitals
* NC: [Abraham Esau Hospital](https://web.facebook.com/calviniahospital/?_rdc=1&_rdr)
* WC: [Knysna](https://www.westerncape.gov.za/facility/knysna-hospital) & [George](https://www.westerncape.gov.za/george-hospital/) Hospitals
* Swaziland: [Good Shepherd Mission Hospital](https://web.facebook.com/people/Good-Shepherd-Mission-Hospital/100054373936734/)

Please note that we are unable to provide sponsorship for electives at this stage, but you may want to try crowdfunding! 

## Foreign Student Electives

Foreign students hoping to do an elective in South Africa have to do this through one of the universities. If you have a particular hospital or Province in mind we can link you to the university that works in that area. 

Foreign Students need to contact these International Offices directly to register as an elective student in South Africa:

* [Sefako Makgatho Health Science University (Gauteng)](http://www.smu.ac.za/students/international-students/)
* [University of Cape Town (Western Cape)](http://www.healthelectives.uct.ac.za/applications/elective-placements)
* [University of KZN (KwaZulu Natal)](https://scm.ukzn.ac.za/registering-international-students/)
* [University of Pretoria (Gauteng)](https://www.up.ac.za/online-registration/article/2398818/international-students)
* [University of Stellenbosch (Western Cape)](https://www.sun.ac.za/english/faculty/healthsciences/international-office/international-undergraduate-elective-students)
* [University of the Witwatersand (Gauteng)](https://www.wits.ac.za/health/faculty-services/elective/)


## Hospitals willing to have students for electives
If you are willing to have elective students at your hospital please complete the form. The length of elective placements can vary with the training institution. Local electives can range from 2  to 4 weeks. For foreign students they also need to register with a local university to be eligible for an elective placement and the universities say 4 - 8 weeks. 

* [We want to have Rural Elective students at our hospital](https://forms.gle/wHGrZfSfQTDHHv9r8)

Student Electives

RuDASA Students

### Not coping emotionally and need help? Don't be afraid to ask for help:
**24 Hour Helplines**

* SADAG Suicide Crisis Line **0800 567 567**
* SADAG Mental Health Line **011 234 4837**
* University Of Cape Town Helpline **0800 24 25 26**
* University Of Pretoria Student Careline **0800 747 747**
* University Of Western Cape Student Helpline **0800 22 23 33**
* Discovery Medical Students & Young Doctors Helpline **0800 323 323**

Helplines

**Help I'm going rural!**

**Rural OnBoarding Annual programme late January to March: "Learn how to thrive, not just survive, in rural health!"**

Welcome to RuDASA's  comprehensive online package for new clinicians joining rural health facilities in South Africa. We offer an orientation program that can fit in with a clinician’s busy program, and still give them access to all the knowledge and resources they need to thrive in rural health care. Although focused on new clinicians we welcome any clinician keen to update their knowledge. 

A 8-week curriculum, structured into six broad categories, using a hybrid teaching methodology. Each Monday you will be sent the webinar advert for that week, via our RuDASA Buddies WhatsApp group, including the links to the relevant zoom meetings; as well as links to relevant webinars, video tutorials, and related guidelines, protocols and tools useful to your daily work. These  can be studied at home at a time that suits you and clinicians can tailor their learning according to their needs. Clinicians are encouraged to attend the interactive Zoom sessions. These will Introduce key mentors and experts that can provide ongoing support as the course progresses. We will cover FAQ and top tips on the materials you have received.

Sessions are on a Tuesday or Wednesday at 18.00 using Zoom.

**Overview**

There are three “types” of orientation topics: 
1. Understanding the DOH working environment skills pertaining to team work, mental well being & patient centred care (all cadres)
2. Top tips for Medical cadres, and FAQ on fields such as HIV, TB, Obstetrics, neonatal and paediatric care, anaesthetics, orthopaedics and trauma and much more. 
3. Weekly topics and material that will be uploaded and if you miss the session you can watch on YouTube.

This course is a work in progress Follow us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to get noice of upcoming On-Boarding sessions.

Week 1 : Infectious Diseases  
Week 2: Maternal Medicine  
Week 3: Adult Medicine  
Week 4: Child Health  
Week 5: Emergency Medicine  
Week 6: Trauma, Anaesthetics and Surgery  
Week 7: Mental health  
Week 8: Family medicine Skills and navigating the NDOH  

At the moment the clinical part of the program is heavily focused on doctors and clinical associates, but the orientation package is open to any new clinician in South Africa. The sections on employee support, the MDT team, health care worker mental health and patient centred care are particularly relevant to any new health care worker, but feel free to attend other sessions. Although this program caters for new professionals we are very happy for existing colleagues to participate in topics they feel would be useful (including interns and students). We are applying for CPD points for the webinars.

We are receiving excellent feedback from our rural network of clinicians on useful information to add. We will be updating our materials and links on a weekly bases. We are also open to requests, input and feedback.
---

**Get Started**
**FREE for members of RuDASA, RuReSA, RuNurSA and PACASA**

We recomend that you join RuDASA as you will get the links to every session and the additional resources via our Forum emails and Provincial Rural Buddy WhatsApp groups.  RuDASA is privileged to have a large network of clinicians passionate about rural health care.  One can easily feel isolated working in a small peripheral facility and yet there may be a clinician at the next hospital happy to give advice or support. Membership is free and gives access to a community of or rural health clinicians. [Sign Up for RuDASA](https://rudasa.org.za/signUp) Please click on the Our Values box on the Sign UP page and read both statements before submitting. 
Once you have Signed Up you will get the links for each webinar via the Rural Buddies WhatsApp groups and the RuDASA Forum emails. You still have to register for each webinar so we can provide you with the CPD points.

**Register for the On-Boarding Programme**

**However anyone can join OnBoarding, without joining RuDASA, just by following us on** [Facebook](https://web.facebook.com/ruraldoctors) or [X](https://x.com/doctors_rural) and looking out for the advertsied sessions. Click on the link on the advert to register.
Once registered you will be sent sent the Zoom link for the session. 
NOTE: CPD points will only be offered to members


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For more information on the programme content contact : 
* Dr Madeleine Muller **mentor@rudasa.org.za**
* Problems registering? Contact our Office Co-ordinator: **info@rudasa.org.za**

If you are not a doctor then find out more about the Rural Health Network organisations that have been created out of a need for networking, support and advocacy amongst different cadres of clinicians. Click on the links below.

[**RuNurSA**](https://web.facebook.com/RuralNursingSA/?_rdc=1&_rdr) Rural nurses advocating for better rural nursing services

[**RuReSA**](https://ruresa.org.za) A network of rehabilitation therapists working, advocating or researching rural rehab. All allied health staff are welcome to join

[**PACASA**](https://web.facebook.com/ClinicalAssociatesRSA/?_rdc=1&_rdr) A network of Clinical Associates throughout South Africa advocating for the profession

The Rural Health Advocacy Project provides support on advocacy for all of these groups [**RHAP**](https://rhap.org.za)

Onboarding

### Help I'm going rural!

If you are an intern about to take up a community service post in a rural hospital or just moving to a rural area read our [info for community service](/pdfs/RuDASA%20Information%20for%20Community%20Service%20doctors%20June%202023.pdf) for helpful tips so you will survive and thrive in rural. Once you are at your new place of work look out for our annual OnBoarding Programme on what you need to know to survive in a district hospital.


**Taking Care** is a group of doctors (2 are rural doctors) that run a variety of wellness workshops , online and at venues, to prevent Burnout & depression in health care workers. You can do a quick check on the site to see if you have Burnout. There are a number of good resources on the web.
 https://www.takingcare.co.za

### Survive and Thrive  
RuDASA is committed to finding or developing tools and support structures for Rural Clinicians so that they can not only survive, but thrive in rural areas. We currently offer an On-Boarding programme for community service and working on developing a Mentoring Programme which will include: Rural Buddies, Rural Champions, Rural Retreats, and a long term goal of a formal Mentoring CPD event. In 2021 EC ran our first 'Onboarding' programme for community service officers. This got an excellent response and will now be an annual event starting late January/early February each year. <br>


**The Wellness for Effective Leadership (WEL) Programme** is a personal development course designed to assist managers in the public sector to improve their wellness, to develop their emotional intelligence and personal and interpersonal competencies, and to deal effectively with stress and the risks of burnout. The programme was developed in 2009 in response to a crisis in service delivery in a rural area, and now maintains a strong focus on improving wellness in order to improve service delivery.

**SADAG** is Africa’s largest mental health support and advocacy group, serving as a support network for the thousands of South Africans who live with mental health problems. It has on its board a powerful team of Patients, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, and General Practitioners. SADAG manages a 16-line counselling-and-referral call centre, and is the voice of patient advocacy, working in urban, peri-urban, and the most rural communities across South Africa. Find out about their Rural Outreach.

<span>Thriving in Rural Health looks at three aspects important to thriving as a doctor in a rural health setting: </span>

* Tools to strengthen resilience in yourself and your colleagues
* Simplified approaches to improve and change inefficient systems in the workplace
* Practical and legal aspects of healthcare worker reporting (VOICE)

### Survive and Thrive Students
From 2018 RuDASA has committed to develop a 'Survive & Thrive' mentoring programme to support Interns and Young Doctors. The emphasis is on helping young doctors transition from their student role and adapt to working in rural areas. We hope that our enthusiastic rural champions will help make the transition day, and inspire you to be part of the  #Imstayingrural cohort!  

This programme includes access to our [Learning Portal](/portal), sharing with colleagues through Doctor Dialogue and the occasional Rural Doctors Retreat. Our first Rural Doctors Retreat was held in Eastern Cape in 2020 and looked at preventing Burnout, how to VOICE your concerns, and beginning to create your own rural network. participants recommended that this be an annual event and be rolled out to the other provinces. In 2021 Eastern Cape extended their orientation programme to a 6 week 'OnBoarding' series of lecturers and resources.



**The Rural Doctor Handbook:**
A very useful handbook filled with information compiled by Dr Ben Gaunt, a veteran rural doctor, and the Zithulele Hospital team. A trove of information made available for your access to thrive!
[Access it here.](https://1drv.ms/b/s!AoNj5Y6vuxgchbAWqEXmy25s2Yrn8Q?e=ybDxcZ)

Resources

Thrive, Not Just Survive in Rural Care

Key RuDASA Activities

Rural Partners

Resources

Students