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The South African Medical Association (SAMA) will investigate allegations that medical interns have been paying for preferred hospital placements.
In a statement, the association said the business options were advertised on social media.
This follows a report by Weekend Argus that students were willing to pay 100,000 rand.
“We simply cannot have a situation where internships are ‘selling out’ for whatever reason. Internship placement is a difficult process and unfortunately many doctors are not located where they want to be. Sell them now to the best. Bidders are not fair to others who are expecting legitimate locations, “said SAMA President Dr. Angelique Coetzee.
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“Given the complexities and historical issues with placement of interns, the current haggling over preferred locations is out of touch with the reality of the situation. And ultimately, this sends the message that with enough money, certain people can purchase the locations of their choice, a situation we cannot accept or tolerate. “
He said the practice was unethical and unfair, and amounted to corruption.
Those with more information have been urged to contact SAMA.
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