Healthcare professionals in South Africa have diverse career paths to choose from whether that’s running or joining a small private practice in a growing town, or working in a large hospital or multi-disciplinary clinic in the city. Each environment offers a unique lifestyle, professional experience, and set of challenges.
Towns like Secunda and Ladysmith are growing quickly, yet many face shortages of healthcare professionals. Private practices in these areas are often the first point of care, with a single GP, dentist, or optometrist serving entire families. Patients value the familiarity and trust that come with seeing the same provider for years, though they may still need to travel to larger centres for specialist care.
For professionals, the lifestyle is slower, commutes are shorter, and living costs are lower. Practitioners gain broad clinical experience and form meaningful connections with their patients, but they may also face limited resources, fewer colleagues to collaborate with, and heavier workloads. Locum placements in these towns are especially important - they allow professionals to earn competitively while helping communities maintain continuity of care.
In cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, private practices and hospitals are busier, more specialized, and better equipped. Patients benefit from quicker access to specialists and advanced treatments, though the pace of care can feel less personal due to higher volumes.
Healthcare professionals in cities enjoy access to advanced technology, structured career growth, and diverse patient cases. However, this comes with trade-offs: higher living costs, longer commutes, fast-paced environments, and an increased risk of burnout. While career progression opportunities are strong, the patient-provider relationships may not be as lasting as those in smaller communities.
Across South Africa, there is a growing need for healthcare workers in smaller towns. Private practices are often stretched thin, with single practitioners carrying the responsibility of caring for entire communities. As towns like Secunda and Rustenburg expand due to industrial and economic development, the healthcare sector must keep up with this growth -but shortages remain a challenge.
Healthcare professionals who choose to work in small towns, even temporarily, play an essential role in strengthening access to care. Locums supporting private practices ensure continuity of service, reduce waiting times, and relieve pressure on permanent practitioners. This contribution not only benefits the community but also gives professionals valuable exposure to different working environments.
Small-town practice offers community connection and broad experience, while city practice offers specialization and resources. Locum work provides a balance - allowing healthcare professionals to support underserved communities, gain exposure to different settings, and enjoy flexibility.
From a single-doctor room in a developing town to a multi-disciplinary clinic in a major city, wherever you choose to work, every healthcare role contributes to strengthening South Africa’s healthcare system.
If you would like to learn more about locum and permanent opportunities, whether a city or a town is your preference, get in touch with us at hello@locumbase.com or WhatsApp on 079 013 3962.
