Dr Bhavna Patel bids a fond farewell to Groote Schuur Hospital after 23 years
GROOTE Schuur Hospital CEO Dr Bhavna Patel (pictured) will be laying down her stethoscope today after 23 years.
Twenty-three years ago, Dr Patel started as a public health registrar at the hospital and served in various senior management positions.
In 2013, she was appointed as the hospital’s CEO and steered it through its journey to where it has become a world-class facility over the past
10 years.
Groote Schuur Hospital spokesperson Alaric Jacobs said Dr Patel’s role had been pivotal.
“During her tenure, Dr Patel was pivotal in leading the hospital through a period of growth, innovation and challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, where Groote Schuur was a beacon of hope for many patients,” said Jacobs.
“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.”
He said Dr Patel also initiated a leadership development programme for the hospital’s management team that 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,” Jacobs said.
Dr Patel, along with her team of managers and health professionals spearheaded many legacy projects and operational improvements, which included the opening of the Neonatal Unit in 2015, the new hospital entrance in 2021, and the Adolescents Unit in 2022. Dr Patel expressed her appreciation for her colleagues 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,” Dr Patel said.
“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.”
Head of Department for the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, Dr Keith Cloete said Dr Patel served the people of the Western Cape and beyond with distinction.