Exodus of pathologists leave NHLS for private sector

The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) says higher pay in the private sector has been the core reason why many pathologists have left the public health sector. 

In five years, the Gauteng NHLS said it has lost eleven staff members, leaving it with only four pathologists. 

On Monday, the Democratic Alliance (DA) visited the Charlotte Maxeke Hospital, where it was revealed that two of the four pathologists are expected to retire soon. 

READ: NHLS facing pathologist shortage as it loses specialists to private sector

During the meeting between the DA and lab officials, the party's Jack Bloom referenced a grievance letter the pathologists had previously presented to management. 

In the letter, the pathologists listed that they were unhappy about the suspension of a night shift, the work overload, safety and inadequate equipment. 

However, NHLS CEO Koleka Mlisana said most of the pathologists left for better pay. 

"Fair enough, there might be areas where people just don't like whoever is the HOD, but the bulk of it is because it's across the country. It really becomes financial, and what are the salary differences? I don't have those figures."
 
NHLS said it is looking into ways of retaining staff, while it tries to fill vacant posts.