Finding a good doctor is important for your health. In South Africa, all doctors must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) before they can treat patients. But how do you know if your doctor is properly registered? Here’s how to check.
Why Checking a Doctor’s Registration is Important
Some people pretend to be doctors when they are not. This is dangerous because they give the wrong treatment or diagnose people incorrectly. In South Africa, it is illegal for someone to work as a doctor without being registered. That’s why checking a doctor’s registration is important.
For more information on medical regulations, visit the South African Medical Association, which provides guidance on ethical medical practices.
What You Need to Check a Doctor’s Registration
Before checking, you need at least one of the following:
The doctor’s full name or surname
Their registration number (if you have it)
The type of doctor they are (GP, Specialist, Dentist, etc.)
If you are not sure how to spell their name, you can use the wildcard search on the website to help.
How to Check Online
You can check if a doctor is registered using the HPCSA iRegister system. Here’s how:
Go to the HPCSA website
Find "Search the iRegister" under Quick Links or Popular Links
Enter the doctor’s name, surname, or registration number
Choose the correct category (GP, Specialist, Dentist)
Check their registration status – it should say “active”
If the status says “erased” or “suspended,” the doctor is not allowed to practice in South Africa.
To verify a doctor directly, you can also use the HPCSA iRegister, which allows you to check registration details instantly.
What to Do If the Doctor is Not Registered
If you don’t find the doctor’s name on the system, you can:
Ask the doctor for their registration details and check again.
Call or email the HPCSA to confirm.
Report the doctor if they are working without being registered.
If you need further assistance, the National Department of Health provides additional healthcare-related information, including regulations and public health services.
Final Thoughts
Checking if a doctor is registered takes just a few minutes. It can protect you from fake doctors and make sure you get the best medical care. Always check before booking an appointment, and if something seems wrong, report it to the HPCSA.
Before visiting a doctor in South Africa, make sure they are legally registered with the HPCSA: Learn how to check their credentials online in just a few steps
Sphe Nhleko
05 February 2025