In-depth, public interest health journalism.

Bulela Vava | SA has an oral health crisis, new HPCSA oversight boards need to step up urgently

By Bulela Vava, January 14, 2026

Posted in: Access to Medicines, Healthcare system, Healthcare Workers, Latest, Opinions, Oral health, Spotlight

The new board members for the Health Professions Council of South Africa have an opportunity to tackle the growing oral disease crisis by dealing with regulatory gaps and inequity, as well as making decisive reforms to the industry, argues Dr Bulela Vava.

Bulela Vava | SA has an oral health crisis, new HPCSA oversight boards need to step up urgently

We can’t simply close dental facilities during the festive period

By Bulela Vava, January 9, 2024

Posted in: Eastern Cape, Healthcare system, Healthcare Workers, Latest, Opinions, Oral health

The closure of some public sector oral health clinics in the Eastern Cape over the festive period is deeply concerning, having left some patients with nowhere to go. A comprehensive plan must be put in place for efficient management and referral of emergency oral healthcare cases during this time and we must ensure that people who need the services are aware of how to access them, argues Dr Bulela Vava.

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