Neonatology in South Africa

Neonatology is a field of medicine that focuses on caring for newborn babies, particularly ill or premature newborns. It is a subspecialty of pediatrics. A medical professional who specializes in neonatology is called a neonatologist. The difference between a pediatrician and a neonatologist is that, while pediatricians are qualified to solve most health problems of newborns, neonatologists are trained specifically to handle the most complex and high-risk situations. Neonatologists can also provide antenatal consultation for women with certain risk factors, such as multiple births. 

Neonatologists’ main patients are newborn infants who are ill or in need of special medical attention due to congenital malformations (birth defects), low birth weight, prematurity, intrauterine growth restriction, pulmonary hypoplasia, seizures, hydrocephalus, birth asphyxia, or sepsis. In general, neonatologist provides the following care:

• Antenatal consultation (consultation during pregnancy) for women with certain risk factors or when a problem is identified before the baby is born.
• Care for newborns at delivery due to issues or conditions in the mother or baby that may require intervention in the delivery room.
• Diagnose and treat newborns with conditions, such as birth defects, infections, and breathing disorders.
• Make sure that critically ill newborns receive the correct nutrition to recover and grow.
• Medically manage newborns who are critically ill, born premature, or in need of surgery.
• Treat and stabilize newborns with any life-threatening medical problems.
• Give comprehensive care to newborn babies by involving obstetricians, pediatricians, and family physicians.
• Educates parents or caretakers about disease prevention and wellness.

Some of the diagnostic tests and treatments that neonatologists perform include newborn screening tests, imaging tests (such as CT scans and MRI), laboratory tests, APGAR scores, breathing treatments, phototherapy, and surgical procedures.

How Long Should I Stay in South Africa?

The length of stay in South Africa depends on the mother’s and the baby’s condition and the type of treatment they receive. In most cases, the baby may need to stay in the hospital for two to three weeks. However, you should not leave South Africa immediately after your baby is discharged. It generally takes at least 8 weeks until it is safe for your baby to fly on an airplane or travel a long distance. 

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

The specific condition of your baby and the treatment they underwent will determine the recovery time. It can take a day to several weeks until the baby’s condition stabilize and then starts to improve.

What Aftercare is Required?

Your neonatologist will give you detailed instructions on how to care for your baby during and after their recovery period. Make sure to follow all of the instructions. You may also need to take your baby for regular checkups. However, you can choose to have these checkups with your local doctor at home if you prefer. 

What's the Success Rate?

Neonatology continues to improve and advance each year. With advances in pediatric anesthesia and airway management, the establishment of NICU, a better understanding of transitional neonatal physiology, and the introduction of total parenteral nutrition have improved the survival rates of newborn babies who need neonatal surgery. Of course, there are still risks and side effects to be aware of, but the procedures are now safer than ever.

Are there Alternatives?

For complex and high-risk situations in newborn babies, there are no other alternatives than seeing a neonatologist.

Neonatology in and around South Africa

About South Africa

South Africa is home to some of the world's most luxurious private game reserves and lodges. Wildlife lovers come here from all corners of the globe in search of the "Big Five": lion, buffalo, leopard, rhino, and elephants. Coral reefs, shark dives, dragon-backed mountain ranges, white-water rafting, and golden beaches lapped by legendary surf breaks are some of South Africa's many other attractions. Traveling around this vast land and touring the vibrant cities, visitors can learn about the nation's turbulent history. Travelers coming to South Africa for medical treatments do so for cost savings, advanced medical technology, and the internationally qualified and skilled doctors. The country welcomes an ever-increasing number of medical tourists each year, many of which travel for Neonatology procedures. Medical Tourists travel from all across the globe, particularly from African countries with an inferior healthcare system. Popular destinations include the capital city, Pretoria, neighboring Johannesburg, and the stunning Cape Town.

Popular Parts of South Africa

With more than 57 million inhabitants, South Africa is the world’s 24th most populous nation. It is a multiethnic society with a large variety of cultures, languages, and religions. Known for its exhilarating outdoor adventure, fascinating wildlife, magnificent landscapes, and opulent history makes South Africa a truly magical destination

• Cape Town is the oldest city and the legislative capital of South Africa. This pleasant city has a lot to offer as you can Hike the Table Mountain, take a wine tour, cruise to Robben Island, relax on beautiful beaches, visit District Six Museum, discover Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, and watch the Boulders Penguin Colony or shop in trendy markets. 
• Johannesburg is the largest and the most populous city. It is changing rapidly into an ultra-modern metropolis. Other than being an urban city, it also boasts a rich history. Tourists can visit the Apartheid Museum to learn more about the country’s difficult past through exhibitions. Other museums such as MOAD and MuseuMAfriCA are also worth a visit to view the city’s art and history.
• Durban is a cosmopolitan city with sunny beaches and charming Afro-Indian culture. There are more Indian nationals residing in this city than any other country outside of India. It is the place to go if you want to see marine life. Visit uShaka Marine World where you can snorkel, dive, and interact with animals. 
• Pretoria is a scenic city and you will find various historic buildings with astounding architecture such as the Voortrekker Monument, Union Buildings, and Church Square with its statue of Paul Kruger. Those who are looking for some outdoor activities can explore Pretoria National Botanical Garden and Rietvlei Nature Reserve for some wildlife viewing.
• Kruger National Park is one of the largest national parks and one of the most exciting safari destinations in the world. Here you can view all of Africa’s safari species such as Lion, Elephant, Rhino, Leopard, Buffalo, Hippo, and Giraffe along with more than 100 mammal species and 500 varieties of bird.

Weather and Climate in South Africa

South Africa’s climate is determined by its situation in the Southern Hemisphere’s subtropical zone and between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The country is a year-round destination thanks to its varying regional climates. May to September is the Dry Season with little to no rain. The days are mostly sunny, but it gets cold in the evenings and mornings. The average temperature during this season is around 14 °C with June to August as the coldest months. The wet season starts in October and ends in April. There will be occasional short rain showers in the afternoon. The average temperature during the wet season is around 20 °C, but it can also be as high as 35 °C, especially in December, January, and February.

Getting Around in South Africa

The main and the busiest airport in South Africa is the O.R. Tambo International Airport. The airport is located in Kempton Park, near Johannesburg and Pretoria. It serves as the primary domestic and international gateway to and from South Africa. The airport operates flights to other cities in South Africa as well as numerous major cities in the world including London, Singapore, Sydney, Abu Dhabi, and Atlanta. There are also two other major international airports: Cape Town International and King Shaka International. The inexpensive way to travel around the country is by flying with budget airlines such as FlySadair, Kalula.com, and Mango.

South Africa has an excellent infrastructure and is easy to navigate. However, if you wish to visit several cities, expect to have at least one long-distance trip. You can travel around by bus, train, or rental car. There are several long-distance bus companies you can choose, such as Intercape, Translux, and Greyhound. The buses are relatively affordable and safe. They are generally equipped with air-conditioning and an onboard toilet. For short-distance travel, Baz Bus is the best choice. A one-way ticket fare starts at around 500 ZAR.

Although trains are slow, they are less expensive than flights and more comfortable than buses. Shosholoza Meyl long-distance trains serve Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Bloemfontein, and several other major cities. This train is very affordable with tickets costing as low as 400 ZAR for a sleeper train. If you’re looking for a more luxurious train, try the Blue Train which offers comfortable compartments, good food, and wine for around 18,300 ZAR. 

Taxis are available to get around major cities. Tourists can hail one directly from the streets. However, since the taxi ranks are not common, it is best to call for one. The base fare can be different in every city, ranging between 11 ZAR to 20 ZAR. 

Tourist Visas in South Africa

A valid visa is required if you wish to visit South Africa. Citizens of more than 60 countries can enter and stay for up to 90 days. Other countries not listed in the visa exemption agreement must apply and obtain a visa to the nearest South Africa embassy or consulate. All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least 30 days after the expiration of their intended visit, and the passport must have at least two unused pages. 

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: South African Rand (ZAR) is the official currency. 1 USD converts to 14 ZAR.
2. Money & Payments: Tourists can find ATMs all around the country. Credit Cards are widely accepted. However, since South Africa has a reputation for scams, you should inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid declined transactions. It is also advisable to always bring some cash with you. Tipping is expected here and you can tip around 10% to 15% of the bill in restaurants and cafes and the standard tip in hotels is 10 to 20 ZAR. 
3. Local Language: There are 11 official languages in the country, including Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, Northern Sotho, Tswana, Southern Sotho, Tsonga, Swazi, Venda, Southern Ndebele, and English. Zulu is the most widely spoken language.
4. Local Culture and Religion: As a secular state, South Africa has a diverse religious population. Most of the population follows Christianity. Other religions such as the traditional African religion, Islam, Hinduism, and Judaism are also freely practiced.
5. Public Holidays: The country has 12 public holidays such as New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Freedom Day, and Christmas Day.