Anita Parbhoo has been appointed CEO of the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital.
Dr Parbhoo’s appointment was announced by the Western Cape Department of Health on July 1.
Dr Parbhoo has been at the hospital since 2008, initially as senior medical manager and then as the acting CEO since December 2020.
“Having worked in child health services for over 13 years, I am well versed in the challenges faced by our children, and it is now a great opportunity to lead the institution in my new role as CEO to strengthen services for children in the Western Cape and the country,” she said.
“Since the Covid-19 pandemic started, food insecurity has worsened and children have had less access to education. There is a lot of work to be done to ensure that children are put back on the correct paths to achieve good overall health. My wish is also that adults become advocates for vulnerable children around them and ensure that children are nurtured in a safe environment.”
Health MEC Nomafrench Mbombo welcomed Dr Parbhoo’s appointment.
“She brings with her a wealth of experience that will be beneficial in leading this hospital as it strives to be the leading specialised health-care provider for children in Africa.”
Head of health in the province Keith Cloete said Dr Parbhoo had “extensive clinical and management experience” at the hospital.
“We look forward to the positive role she will play in our senior leadership team and the wider health system in the Western Cape,” he said.
