The entrepreneurship framework is central to tackling South Africa’s persistent unemployment and systemic challenges in healthcare delivery. Dr Christo Scheepers’ doctoral research (2022) addressed these intersecting crises by developing an entrepreneurship framework tailored to the healthcare industry. The study recognised that while healthcare is critical for societal well-being, it also holds untapped potential for job creation if entrepreneurial opportunities are strategically cultivated.
The Problem
Despite significant investment, the South African healthcare system struggles with inefficiencies, resource shortages, and unequal access. At the same time, unemployment, particularly among youth, remains one of the country’s most pressing socio-economic challenges. The research argues that aligning healthcare innovation with entrepreneurship can open pathways for sustainable employment creation.
Research Approach
Dr Scheepers adopted a systems thinking and exploratory research methodology, combining literature reviews, interviews, and case studies. The study analysed global healthcare entrepreneurial models, local policy gaps, and the realities of South Africa’s healthcare sector. From this, critical enablers and barriers were identified, ranging from regulatory constraints to funding limitations and skill mismatches.
Key Findings: Entrepreneurship Framework
Healthcare as a job creator – Beyond medical professionals, the sector can generate opportunities in digital health, supply chain management, support services, and community-based care.
Barriers to entry – Red tape, limited access to capital, and fragmented policy hinder healthcare entrepreneurship.
Skills gap – Training and education must integrate both clinical and business skills to prepare entrepreneurs.
Collaboration is crucial – Stronger partnerships between government, private sector, and academia are essential for scalable solutions.
Entrepreneurship Framework
The proposed Entrepreneurship Framework for Healthcare Employment provides a structured approach to:
- Identify entrepreneurial opportunities within healthcare.
- Strengthen policy and regulatory support.
- Build funding pipelines for healthcare ventures.
- Develop human capital through blended health-business education.
- Promote innovation hubs and public-private partnerships.
Contribution
This research makes both an academic and practical contribution by bridging the gap between healthcare delivery and entrepreneurship. By reframing healthcare as an engine for job creation, policymakers, investors, and practitioners can create a roadmap for reducing unemployment while improving health outcomes.
Leave a Reply