Women’s Month With Dr Baloi
Dr Bongi Baloi is a Medical Practitioner, based in Mbombela, Mpumalanga Province and her areas of interest are Women’s Health Care, Child Health Care and HIV Management.
What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
From a young age, I was inspired by my mother, who worked as a nurse. She often took me to her workplace at the clinic, where I witnessed firsthand the impact healthcare professionals can have on individuals and communities.
Can you share a defining moment in your career that reinforced your decision to become a doctor?
A pivotal moment in my career was receiving the South African Medical Association Community Builder of the Year Award in 2019. This recognition, along with winning the Mpumalanga Best General Practitioner award at the Health Excellence Awards in 2017, solidified my commitment to the medical field and my role in serving the community.
Who has been your greatest inspiration/role model and why?
My greatest inspiration has undoubtedly been my mother. I watched her tirelessly advocate for improved health and living conditions in our community of KaNyamazane. Despite facing significant challenges, including resistance from traditional leaders, she remained steadfast in her mission to bring about change.
What significant challenges have you faced as a female doctor, and how did you overcome them?
Entering a male-dominated field presented numerous challenges. Early in my career, I often felt the need to prove my capabilities as a female doctor. I recall my surgical rotation in Pretoria, where I was one of only three female doctors in a specialty predominantly occupied by men. When I returned to KaNyamazane to practice general medicine, I initially faced scepticism from the community, which traditionally favoured male doctors. Over time, I earned their trust and expanded my patient base beyond paediatrics.
What is one of your proudest achievements in your medical career?
I am particularly proud to be one of the founding members of the first black-owned medical centre in Mbombela. This multidisciplinary centre includes a general practitioner, gynaecologist, general surgeon, paediatrician, and optometrist, providing comprehensive care to our community.
How do you balance work and personal life, especially given the demanding nature of the medical profession?
I am fortunate to have a strong family support system that encourages me to take breaks and prioritise self-care. I dedicate Sundays to family time, ensuring that I maintain a healthy work-life balance.
How do you think your work has made a difference in your community or the field of medicine?
Through my efforts in promoting preventative care and regular screenings for chronic conditions, I have witnessed significant improvements in my community’s health. Additionally, I take pride in mentoring young individuals who have pursued careers in medicine, some of whom now work alongside me.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the medical field?
The landscape of medicine is evolving, with more female medical graduates today than ever before. This shift demonstrates that women can excel in all areas of medicine, including specialised fields. I encourage young women to pursue their passions and believe that the sky is the limit.
What do you see as the biggest opportunities for women in medicine in the coming years?
The medical field is becoming increasingly diverse, offering various non-clinical specialties. The rise of technology, such as artificial intelligence, provides new avenues for women to engage in medicine while balancing family life.
What do you believe are the most pressing health issues facing women today, and how can the healthcare system better support women’s health and wellbeing?
The most pressing health issues for women include rising rates of cancers (particularly breast, cervical, and colon), non-communicable diseases, HIV, gender-based violence, and mental health challenges. To better support women’s health, we must consolidate healthcare services, conduct awareness campaigns, and adopt a holistic approach to patient care. This includes addressing underlying factors such as domestic abuse and financial constraints that may affect women’s health. Collaboration across disciplines is essential to provide comprehensive care.
The Transformative Power Of Unwavering Dedication
Dr. Baloi’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of unwavering dedication and the profound impact one individual can have on their community. Her story underscores the essence of true leadership and resilience in the face of challenges. As Dr. Baloi herself eloquently puts it,
“Medicine is not just a career; it is a calling to serve with compassion and courage.”
Her pioneering spirit and commitment to advancing women’s and children’s health, alongside her role in founding the first black-owned medical centre in Mbombela, continue to inspire and uplift those around her. Her story is a reminder that with determination and support, we can overcome barriers and make a lasting difference in the world.
