The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Groote Schuur Hospital, Dr Bhavna Patel, will wear her coat for the final time on Wednesday.
Patel, who worked at the public hospital for 23 years,
started as a public health registrar and has served in various senior management
positions at the hospital. In 2013, she was appointed as CEO of Groote Schuur
Hospital.
PHOTO - WCDoH&W: Outgoing CEO of Groote Schuur Hospital, Dr. Bhavna PatelIn a statement, spokesperson for the hospital, Alaric
Jacobs, described her as ‘’one of the true legends in the public health system
in the Western Cape.’’
‘’During her tenure, Dr Patel has been pivotal in leading
the hospital through a period of growth, innovation, and challenges, such the
COVID-19 pandemic, where Groote Schuur was a beacon of hope for many patients.
She was also instrumental in building many lasting relationships with donors,
the private health sector, the Hospital Board, and other stakeholders, who will
continue to support the hospital’s future strategic goals.’’
‘’As a champion of building a strong leadership culture, Dr
Patel also initiated a leadership development programme for the hospital’s
management team, which has grown from strength to strength. This investment in
leadership will ensure that she leaves a lasting legacy. Throughout her career,
Dr Patel also achieved seven degrees, and graduated with her PhD in Leadership
in 2022. She will also be remembered for her unwavering commitment and
dedication to her staff and one of her major investments in staff wellbeing was
the opening of the Groote Schuur Hospital Staff Wellness Unit,’’ added Jacobs.
Dr Patel also opened the Neonatal Unit in 2015, the new
hospital entrance in 2021, and the Adolescents Unit in 2022.
Reflecting on her immense contribution over the past 23
years, Dr Patel expressed her appreciation to her colleagues, the Groote Schuur
Hospital team, and the people of the Western Cape
“I am truly humbled and honoured to have served this
wonderful institution and communities of the Western Cape and wish to express
my deepest gratitude to all my colleagues, staff, and patients for the
opportunity to be CEO of Groote Schuur Hospital. I leave with many fond
memories of the last 23 years and have built friendships that will continue
forever. I also believe that I leave our hospital well positioned to overcome
any challenges and face the many opportunities to remain a national and
international leader in healthcare. It has been a privilege to have served
you.”
Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness Head, Dr
Keith Cloete, says Dr Patel served the people of the Western Cape and beyond,
with distinction,
‘’Groote Schuur Hospital has achieved many remarkable
milestones in the delivery of high quality, world-class healthcare services
during her tenure. Dr Patel has led the hospital team with impeccable
leadership and grace. She leaves a legacy of excellence in public service. She
is widely respected for her invaluable contribution on many fronts in the
Department. It has been a great honour for me to have worked with her as
colleague and friend over the years. I wish her well in her retirement.
Done By: Mitchum George
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