DR Tshabangu appointed as chairman of SIZWE

Dr Sam Tshabangu, a real pioneer for access to basic healthcare, has been appointed chairman of Sizwe Medical Services.

He takes over the helm from Dr Abner Tlakula, who has stepped down from the chairmanship due to other business interests, but who continues as chairman of Kwacha, Sizwe Medical Services’ holding company.
 
A founding member of both Kwacha and Sizwe in 1976 and 1978 respectively, Dr Tshabangu has been integrally involved with Sizwe for the past 26 years and as a result has a good knowledge and understanding of the company. He is also a doctor by training and still runs the practice he established in Soweto in 1971.
 
One of the areas Dr Tshabangu has been particularly instrumental, is the initiation of doctor networks, which facilitate access to care and assist in keeping costs at an affordable level. 
 
Speaking about his new position at Sizwe Medical Services, Dr Tshabangu says one of the company’s biggest assets is its people and the high level of service offered.
 
Sizwe Medical Fund, administered by Sizwe Medical Services, is the seventh largest scheme in the country with 60 000 principal members covering approximately 180 000 beneficiaries.  Established by 38 black professionals with a central focus on healthcare, Sizwe Medical Services was the first group to offer medical aid in the private sector to individuals not previously covered by traditional medical aids.
 
Dr Tshabangu also stresses that he would like to see stronger relationships built with GP networks as he believes that this is the key to the future of healthcare in South Africa.
 
“Sizwe has everything it takes - a Rolls Royce of IT systems, a good track record, financial stability and a company that truly represents and services the rainbow that is South Africa,” concludes Dr Tshabangu.