Profmed’s white paper unveils a bright horizon for South African professionals, celebrating their staying power and highlighting opportunities over the brain drain, with increased public investment in skill development and a wave of positivity among the youth.
Johannesburg, South Africa (18 August 2023) – Today marks an exciting chapter as Profmed unveils their illuminating white paper titled “Profmed – Plugging the Brain Drain“.
Buckle up, because the news isn’t just about plugging holes – it’s about igniting a fire of positivity.
Emigration, often dubbed as the dreaded ‘brain drain’, has been a global buzzword. But hold onto your stethoscopes, because Profmed is flipping the script and highlighting the boundless potential awaiting young professionals right here in South Africa.
These days, professionals are painting outside the lines. They’re exploring international horizons, then boomeranging back to our sunny shores to kickstart businesses, mentor newbies, and sprinkle innovation all over the African landscape. Some are even jet-setting digital nomads! Emigration, once seen as an irreversible shift, has now morphed into a dynamic dance.
And here’s the kicker: Profmed isn’t letting healthcare take a back seat while South Africans explore the globe in new ways. With a generous 150-day grace period, they’re ensuring that even those on the move can access quality medical aid.

The secret sauce? It’s the staying power that’s reshaping the narrative. Instead of lamenting departures or harping on problems, Profmed is shouting from the rooftops about why staying put is a goldmine of opportunity.
Craig Comrie, Chief Principal at Profmed, echoes the sentiment: “This study isn’t just about charts and data. It’s a love letter to South African professionals, the real game-changers in our nation’s destiny. Despite challenges, it’s our local talent that’s steering our ship towards sunnier shores.”
Comrie continues, “We’re witnessing a refreshing wind of change – a booming economy, joint efforts from public, private, and investment sectors for robust infrastructure, and a swell of positivity radiating from our vibrant youth. The tunnel has a light, and we’re sprinting towards it.”
Let’s dive into the good stuff the white paper serves on a silver platter:
The ‘brain drain’ outcry? Not so fast. Public investment in skill development has soared by a cool R2.3 billion, complete with enticing no-return grant schemes to keep our best and brightest within our borders.
Media sensationalism versus cold, hard emigration stats? Worlds apart. Turns out, gloom sells better than reality.
Worried about the ‘well’ running dry due to the emigration wave? Fret not. As education and employment swell among the youth, the proportion of ‘lost’ professionals is shrinking faster than you can say stethoscope.
Comrie’s optimism shines through: “Remember, it’s not just about throwing in the towel and leaving. We’re waving the flag for the homeland, showcasing the wealth of opportunities right here. Picture groundbreaking inventions, bubbling industries, and a young generation ready to show the world how it’s done. We’re on a world stage, and we’re getting the spotlight we deserve.”
In his closing words, Comrie adds, “Professionals might not have a roadmap, but they’re trailblazers nonetheless. Their health and well-being form the bedrock of their achievements. We’re not just about Band-Aids and prescriptions; we’re about nurturing a nation’s pride. This is our commitment, and it’s etched in our DNA.”
So, here’s the takeaway: Profmed’s white paper isn’t just words on a page; it’s a symphony of hope, a rallying cry for staying, a salute to the professionals who are crafting our future. Because, at the end of the day, our health isn’t just an individual quest; it’s a collective anthem that resonates with the heartbeats of a nation.
For more stories that fill your heart with positivity, stay tuned to Good Things Guy.

