Mitchell’s Plain
DR KATYA EVANS
Area of Speciality
Specialist Emergency Physician
Experience
I am a Specialist Emergency Physician with a passion for compassionate care, especially during times of crisis. Since qualifying as a doctor in 2008, I have gained experience working at major hospitals like Groote Schuur, Red Cross, Mitchells Plain Hospital, Tygerberg, as well as several smaller hospitals and EMS. Since 2015, I have been working serving communities in Mitchells Plain, Phillipi, and Heideveld areas in the state sector.
To deepen my ability to support patients and their families facing serious illness, I completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Palliative Medicine through UCT in 2019 and I am currently busy with my PhD in the topic of Palliative Medicine. My focus is on providing care, working within a team, that respects both the medical and emotional needs of patients, helping them and their loved ones navigate difficult times with dignity, compassion, and support. I have joined the Chariot Health team in 2024 part-time covering the Mitchells Plain and Strandfontein areas.
SR JOAN BAAITJIES
Area of Speciality
Experience
In the early 1990s, I began my career at a school for children with disabilities, which served as a crucial foundation when she later faced the challenges of raising a son with special needs.
Motivated by my experiences, I pursued nursing at Melomed and later completed a bridging course at Netcare Education. My work was centered around medical and surgical wards, particularly in pre- and post-operative care, all driven by my commitment to compassionate patient support.
It was during this time that I experienced profound personal and professional transformation following my husband’s stroke, which temporarily halted my nursing career. Two years later, I joined CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa), focusing on breast examinations and mole analysis, unknowingly preparing for my future role at Chariot Health.
My passion for patient care was reignited when I connected with Dr. Katya Evans, a palliative care physician in Mitchells Plain.
Alongside my nursing career, I am passionate about reading and writing. I have authored a book titled Embrace Your Pain, through which I aim to share a message of hope and faith with others.