Head Clinical Unit (psychiatry) – Fort England – Department Of Health

About the Role

The Department of Health is seeking a dedicated and skilled Head Clinical Unit (Psychiatry) based in the Sarah Baartman District at Fort England Psychiatric Hospital. This role is vital to enhancing mental health services in the region, providing specialist psychiatric care, assessments, and evaluations of mental healthcare users both within the hospital setting and in the community. By addressing mental health needs, you will play a significant part in improving the quality of life for individuals in your care, ultimately contributing to a healthier society.

You will not only be responsible for providing expert psychiatric treatment but also for mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals through academic teaching and clinical training. Located in the picturesque setting of the Eastern Cape, this position offers a unique opportunity to engage with the community, foster relationships with other healthcare providers, and ensure that comprehensive mental health services are accessible to those in need.

About the Department

The Department of Health is committed to promoting and protecting the health of all South Africans by providing quality healthcare services. It strives to ensure equitable access to health services, enhancing public health standards, and implementing effective healthcare policies. Working within this dynamic environment means being part of a team dedicated to improving health outcomes and serving the public with integrity and compassion.

What You’ll Do

• Provide specialist psychiatric care, assessments, and evaluations for mental healthcare users.
• Deliver academic teaching and clinical training for students and trainees in psychiatry.
• Offer guidance and training to clinical paramedical staff and management in both tertiary services and outreach areas.
• Develop guidelines, protocols, and referral pathways for effective management of mental health users.
• Ensure the efficient use of allocated resources, including human resources, and supervise research initiatives.
• Conduct clinical audits and participate in hospital committees.
• Handle administrative tasks related to patient management and student training, including addressing patient complaints and coordinating staff allocations.
• Support the academic development of under- and post-graduate students and assist with their research projects.

What You’ll Need

• Appropriate qualification for registration as a Medical Specialist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
• Minimum of 3 years’ appropriate experience as a Medical Specialist in psychiatry after registration.
• Strong clinical, administrative, and management skills, particularly within mental health services.
• Experience in teaching and training healthcare professionals in mental health.
• Proven leadership abilities, communication skills, and capability in program planning and evaluation.
• Knowledge of psychosocial rehabilitation and substance abuse management.
• Clinical research skills and proficiency in computer literacy.
• A valid driver’s license.

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted electronically via email as detailed in the instructions below.