The number of doctors in South Africa, measured in units per population, showed a general upward trend from 2013 to 2023. The units increased gradually, from 740 to 810 per unit persons in 2023, with fluctuations in year-on-year variations and an overall CAGR decrease from 1.12% in 2013 to 0.5% in 2023. The last two years, 2022 and 2023, saw stable values with zero percent year-on-year variation in 2023.
Looking ahead, the forecasted data indicate a continued increase in the number of doctors, reaching 830 units per population by 2028. However, the forecasted 5-year CAGR is expected to be relatively modest at 0.24%, with an overall growth rate of 1.22% over this period.
Future trends to watch for:
• Impact of healthcare policies on doctor training and retention rates.
• Potential influence of technology and AI in supplementing healthcare services.
• Socio-economic factors affecting healthcare accessibility and demand for doctors.
