Although no information was found that addresses staff vacancies within the long-term care system directly, the South African human resources for health (HRH) in general are characterised by attrition driven by factors such as poor workplace conditions, workload, workplace insecurity and morale, relationship with management, and risk to personal safety and health (DOH, 2011; Rawat, 2012). The Department of Health reported a staff turnover rate of up to 80% in some provinces (DOH, 2011; Rawat, 2012). Attrition of trained healthcare professionals are believed to be underestimated at 25% annually (excluding the 6% that is due to retirement, death and change in profession) (DOH, 2011).

References:

DOH. (2011). HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH SOUTH AFRICA (HRH) Department of Health. Available from: http://www.hst.org.za/publications/NonHST Publications/hrh_strategy-2.pdf

Rawat, A. (2012). Gaps and shortages in South Africa’s health workforce. Backgrounder, 31(June), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.1.4424.0805