February 7, 2024

Dr Shaheem De Vries announced as new CEO of Groote Schuur Hospital

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness announced the appointment of Dr. Shaheem De Vries as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Groote Schuur Hospital on Friday, following the retirement of Dr. Bhavna Patel after 23 years of service.

Dr. De Vries officially assumed his role on Thursday, February 1st, with a strong commitment to upholding the hospital's tradition of delivering high-quality patient care. He will lead a dedicated team of nearly 3,600 staff members, guiding them on a path of innovation, collaboration, compassion, and excellence, the department stated.

With a medical degree, a diploma in Primary Emergency Care, a Master's Degree in Emergency Medicine, and an MBA from the UCT Graduate School of Business, Dr. De Vries brings a wealth of expertise to his new position. His impressive track record includes serving as the Director of Emergency Medical Services from 2013 to 2022 and as the Clinical Medical Manager for Emergency Medical Services from 2022 to 2023.

Dr. De Vries has a keen interest in African emergency care systems and has been actively involved with the African Federation for Emergency Medicine (AFEM) since its inception, serving as its CEO from 2017 to 2019. He has also provided consultancy services for various African EMS systems and has been recognized as a pre-hospital expert in Emergency Care Systems by the World Health Organization.

Western Cape MEC for Health and Wellness, Professor Nomafrench Mbombo, extended her best wishes to Dr. De Vries, expressing confidence in his ability to lead Groote Schuur Hospital effectively. She highlighted his past dedication and experience within the Department of Health and Wellness as a solid foundation for serving the people of the Western Cape.

Dr. Keith Cloete, Head of the Department of Health and Wellness, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Dr. De Vries's invaluable contribution to the hospital's senior leadership team and its ongoing legacy of excellence in healthcare provision.

In response to his appointment, Dr. De Vries expressed his gratitude and honor, recognizing Groote Schuur Hospital as a symbol of the province's commitment to healthcare. He acknowledged Dr. Patel's remarkable legacy and expressed excitement about the opportunity to work alongside a talented team, continuing the hospital's tradition of quality care, research, and innovation.