About Company
Mediclinic Limpopo is a leading private hospital in Polokwane, dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centric care to the communities of the Limpopo province. As part of the larger Mediclinic International group, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of clinical excellence, ethical practice, and patient safety. Our state-of-the-art facility offers a comprehensive range of medical services, supported by advanced technology and a team of highly skilled healthcare professionals. At Mediclinic Limpopo, we believe in creating a supportive and collaborative environment where our staff can thrive and contribute to our mission of improving health and well-being. We are deeply embedded in the Polokwane community, striving to make a positive impact through our healthcare services and community initiatives. Join us in our pursuit of medical excellence and compassionate care, where your expertise will directly contribute to safeguarding patient information and trust. We pride ourselves on fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional growth.
Job Description
Mediclinic Limpopo is seeking a dedicated and experienced Healthcare Data Privacy Specialist to join our dynamic team in Polokwane. In an era where patient data is paramount, this crucial role is responsible for ensuring the robust protection of all sensitive health information, maintaining strict compliance with national and international data protection regulations, most notably South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), and other relevant healthcare-specific legislation. The successful candidate will be instrumental in developing, implementing, and monitoring our data privacy policies and procedures across all hospital departments. This position demands a keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of information governance principles within a healthcare context, and the ability to translate complex legal requirements into practical operational guidelines. You will serve as a key advisor to management and staff on all privacy-related matters, conducting risk assessments, managing data breaches, and fostering a culture of privacy awareness throughout the organization. This is more than just a compliance role; it’s about building and maintaining patient trust, upholding ethical standards, and safeguarding the integrity of our healthcare services. If you are passionate about data protection and eager to make a significant impact in a leading healthcare institution, we encourage you to apply. Your contributions will directly strengthen our reputation and ensure our patients’ peace of mind regarding their personal health information.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive data privacy policies, procedures, and guidelines in alignment with POPIA and other applicable regulations.
- Conduct regular privacy impact assessments (PIAs) and risk assessments for new and existing projects, systems, and processes involving personal health information.
- Monitor compliance with data protection laws and internal policies, conducting audits and reviews as necessary.
- Act as a primary point of contact for internal privacy inquiries and external regulatory bodies (e.g., Information Regulator).
- Manage and respond to data subject access requests, consent withdrawals, and other rights exercised under POPIA.
- Investigate and respond to potential data breaches, privacy incidents, and complaints, coordinating with relevant departments and reporting to regulatory authorities as required.
- Develop and deliver ongoing data privacy training and awareness programs for all staff members, ensuring a clear understanding of their privacy responsibilities.
- Advise on data processing activities, including data sharing agreements, third-party vendor assessments, and international data transfers.
- Stay abreast of changes in data protection laws and best practices, adapting organizational policies accordingly.
- Collaborate with IT, Legal, Clinical, and Operations teams to embed privacy-by-design principles into all hospital operations.
- Support the Data Protection Officer (if applicable) in strategic privacy initiatives and compliance frameworks.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (minimum 4 years) in data privacy, information governance, or a related compliance role, preferably within the healthcare sector.
- In-depth knowledge and practical application of South Africa's Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
- Strong understanding of healthcare data principles, patient confidentiality, and medical ethics.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex privacy concepts to diverse audiences.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
- Relevant professional certification (e.g., CIPP/E, CIPP/A, CIPM, CIPT) or willingness to obtain within 12 months of employment.
- Proficiency in using privacy management tools and technologies.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Law, Information Technology, Healthcare Administration, or a related field.
- Postgraduate qualification in Data Protection, Information Governance, or relevant legal studies.
- Experience with other international data protection frameworks (e.g., GDPR) is a plus.
- Project management experience related to privacy initiatives.
- Familiarity with clinical information systems and health IT security standards.
- Experience working with the Information Regulator of South Africa.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications
- Comprehensive medical aid benefits for you and your family
- Generous provident fund contributions to support your future
- Ample paid time off and sick leave provisions
- Extensive opportunities for professional development, training, and continuous learning
- Access to a supportive and collaborative work environment within a leading healthcare group
- Employee wellness programs focused on physical and mental well-being
- Career growth opportunities within the Mediclinic International network
- Life and disability insurance
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the above requirements are invited to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your comprehensive CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications are attached. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the Mediclinic Limpopo family, where you can make a real difference in patient data security.