The New Health Ombud in South Africa: Emeritus Professor Taole Resetselemang Mokoena

The Health Ombud in South Africa, Professor Malegapuru W. Makgoba, has completed his non-renewable seven-year term on May 31st, 2023. The Health Ombud’s role is to promote and protect health and safety for healthcare service users. The office investigates and resolves complaints about non-compliance with prescribed norms and standards within the national health system.

Professor Makgoba’s Contributions

Under Professor Makgoba’s leadership, the Office of Health Standards Compliance (OHSC) was established. The OHSC monitors the implementation of recommendations made by the Health Ombud. Professor Makgoba, with his experience in clinical care, knowledge of the public service, and understanding of the healthcare system, conducted notable investigations such as the Life Esidimeni involving mental health patients, Tembisa Hospital, and Rahima Moosa Mother & Child Hospital. His departure is a significant loss to the healthcare system that still requires significant reform.

Emeritus Professor Taole Resetselemang Mokoena Takes Charge

Professor Mokoena assumed office on June 1st, 2023, as the new Health Ombud. He has a distinguished medical career, with a medical degree from the University of Natal, D.Phil from the University of Oxford, and a fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. He is an active academic and professional leader who has served on numerous national and professional bodies such as the South African Medical Association, Health Professions Council of South Africa, Colleges of Medicine of South Africa, and College of Surgeons of South Africa.

Professor Mokoena’s Experience

Professor Mokoena has extensive experience in investigations and inquiries into wrongdoing and injustice within the healthcare sector. His clinical and research interests span immunology, oncology, and endocrinology, with previous experience in renal transplant units at the Universities of Natal and Witwatersrand. He also chaired panels investigating surgical deaths and discrimination within the cardiology department at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.

Continuation of Crucial Work

As Professor Mokoena takes on this new responsibility, the Minister of Health, Dr. Joe Phaahla, and the Department of Health express their confidence in his ability to continue the crucial work of his predecessor. Professor Mokoena’s dedication to diligence, impartiality, and justice is expected to guide him in his new role. The future of South African healthcare is in capable hands, with Professor Mokoena at the helm.