Life Healthcare

A VISION FOR A HEALTH REVOLUTION

Life Healthcare Group, a leading private healthcare provider in Southern Africa, exemplifies the profound impact of an unwavering commitment to quality patient care and innovation. With over four decades of experience, the group is driven by a mission to transform patient outcomes. Chief Executive, Peter WhartonHood, shares insights into this inspiring journey

Writer: Rachel Carr | Project Manager: Harry Thurlow

The healthcare system in South Africa (SA) is a complex tapestry woven from two distinct sectors – a vast public system serving over 80 percent of the population and a well-resourced private sector catering for higherincome groups and those with medical insurance.

This duality reflects the country’s socioeconomic realities but also underscores the potential for collaboration. The public sector provides essential services, especially in rural and underserved areas, but faces challenges – long waiting times, staff shortages, and limited access to advanced technologies. Conversely, the private sector offers comparably First World, high-quality care.

The strengths inherent in both sectors have the potential for innovative public-private partnerships. Sustainable healthcare reform hinges on leveraging the best of both worlds – ensuring equitable access, improved

outcomes, and long-term viability across all communities. A resilient healthcare system benefits everyone by increasing cost effectiveness and broadening access to quality care.

“Our goal is to build a healthcare system that works for everyone,” opens Peter Wharton-Hood, Chief Executive of Life Healthcare Group (Life Healthcare).

“We believe that collaboration between all parties is the key to unlocking the full potential of healthcare in SA.”

PRIVATE EXCELLENCE TO PUBLIC REFORMS

The private healthcare sector exemplifies excellence – offering high-class services, state-of-the-art facilities, and shorter waiting periods. These advantages are primarily funded through medical aid scheme membership, allowing patients access to advanced treatments and specialised care.

SA MEDICAL

SA Medical Services

The Hear

Product offerings evolved to include not only cardiac devices but also PPE, consumables, and accessories, prompting multiple office upgrades to accommodate the growing portfolio and team.

PFrom humble beginnings to a national presence, SA Medical Services has charted an extraordinary journey of vision, grit, and innovation in South Africa’s healthcare landscape. Founded in 2005 by current CEO, Sandesh Sukhlal, the company initially focused solely on supplying general surgical products to the public sector. Built on a foundation of integrity and determination, the seeds were planted for what would become one of South Africa’s most dynamic medical distribution companies. A significant turning point came in 2016, when Sandesh Sukhlal partnered with the current Managing Director Sholen Govender to pivot into the highly specialized field of interventional cardiology. The partnership fused ambition with industry insight— two young, driven individuals who sought to disrupt the status quo dominated by multinational giants. Their alliance led to a strategic collaboration with one of the leading global cardiac device manufacturers, SMT, marking SA Medical’s entry into a challenging but promising niche.

Starting operations from the Govender family home and fueled by the passion of a three-person team, the journey was not without its early struggles. With Kandice Govender joining as Commercial Director in 2018—bringing with her over 15 years of multinational marketing and financial experience—the business gained strategic leadership that helped sharpen its growth trajectory. Lifehealth Care Entabeni Hospital in Durban was one of the first major customers, and from there, the momentum grew steadily. Between 2019 and 2021, SA Medical Services experienced rapid expansion.

Double-digit growth became the norm, as the company secured Tier 1 rankings and preferred supplier status across South Africa’s leading private hospital groups—Lenmed Busamed, Life Healthcare, Mediclinic, and Netcare—while also making inroads into independent institutions.

The last three years have seen exponential growth. SA Medical Services now boasts the largest DrugEluting Stent (DES) market share within Life Healthcare and has attained formulary status and preferred supplier designations across other top hospital groups. With a professional sales force of over 30 representatives, and a SubSaharan footprint spanning more than 60 hospitals, the company operates from offices and warehouses in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, supported by satellite presence in all nine provinces. Under the operational leadership of General Manager Rakesh Ramdev, the team delivers service excellence backed by decades of industry experience.

OUR GROWTH IS GUIDED BY THREE KEY PILLARS:

2. Best-in-Class

Products

3. Customer-Centric

Service

1. Education and Training – Equipping clinicians through CME programs, workshops, and simulationbased learning.

– Offering high-quality, globally sourced technologies at cost-efficient rates

– Ensuring responsive, reliable, and relationship-driven support. As we look ahead, our vision remains bold and clear: to become South Africa’s number one healthcare partner, with cardiology as the heart of our innovation. We are committed to reinvesting in education, training, and research alongside our global partners, staying at the forefront of transformative healthcare solutions.

EVOLUTIONIZING CARDIAC CARESA MEDICAL DRUG ELUTING STENT, SUPRAFLEX CRUZ BOASTS 48% MARKET SHARE IN 2024 WITHIN LIFE HEALTH CARE GROUP

Cardiovascular disease remains one of South Africa’s leading health challenges, making access to advanced treatment essential. At LIFE Hospital Group, we are proud to introduce the SupraFlex Cruz stent—a breakthrough in world-class cardiac care.

At LIFE Hospital Group, we’re not just treating heart disease we’re redefining the future of cardiac care. If you’re experiencing heart concerns, speak to your Cardiologist at a Life Healthcare facility. Together, we’re building healthier hearts, one beat at a time.

Developed by Sahajanand Medical Technologies (SMT), this ultrathin-strut, sirolimus-eluting stent is designed for precision, safety, and long-term success in patients with complex coronary artery disease. Its 60-micron struts make it one of the thinnest available, enhancing flexibility, reducing vessel injury, and promoting faster healing.

CLINICAL EVIDENCE CONFIRMS ITS SUPERIORITY:

91% endothelial coverage in just 35 days (Sibi OCT study)

Proven success in long lesions up to 48mm (Taxco study) Exceptionally low complication rates below 5% at 12 months, even in high-risk patients (TALENT & S-FLEX UK-II trials)

Allows for shorter dual antiplatelet therapy, improving safety in high-bleeding-risk cases

The SupraFlex Cruz has gained global recognition with CE Mark approval and use in countries like Australia and France. At LIFE Hospital Group, usage has grown 38% in the past year, making it our third most-utilized stent—a reflection of trust from both doctors and patients.

Whether for routine angioplasty or complex multivessel disease, the SupraFlex Cruz delivers durability, biocompatibility, and faster recovery—empowering our cardiologists to achieve the best outcomes.

WORLD’S FIRST AND ONLY NONCOMPLIANT DCB: INTRODUCING THE PROTÉGÉ

UNIQUE DRUG

APPLICATION

Application of drug within the folds using auto pipette technology

WING SEAL TECHNOLOGY

Corrugation prevents the balloon unfolding during advancement

M3i STUDY

Multiple drug release up to 3 times with the same device

PROVEN SAFETY & EFFICACY IN REAL-WORLD: PEARL REGISTRY

At 2 years Protege showed 11 7% TLR in ISR and 2 9% in De Novo Lesions which is lower compared to other DCBs in clinical registries*

At SA Medical Se outcomes by bri healthcare profe gap between cutti proud to serve as organisations nati solutions, with a s What sets us apa

Behind every prod deeply committed

From clinical spec every member of where it matters m

A MEDICAL

PERTS BEHIND YOUR CARE

ervices, our mission is simple yet powerful: To improve patient nging world-class, innovative medical technologies closer to ssionals across South Africa. Founded with a vision to bridge the ng-edge global advancements and local clinical needs, we are trusted partners to physicians, hospitals, and healthcare onwide Our Portfolio spans a range of life-saving devices and strong focus on cardiovascular health and international therapies. rt is our people-first approach.

duct and service is a passionate team of professionals who are to supporting our clinicians and empowering better patient care cialists and product experts to our operations and support staff, the SA Medical Services team contributes to making a difference most, in the lives of patients.

Senior

Lazarus

Desian

Kallie

Life Healthcare supports the objective of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act in terms of increasing access for all South Africans to high-quality, cost-effective healthcare. However, Life Healthcare has expressed grave concerns regarding the NHI Act and does not believe that in its current construct it will deliver on the overall objective.

It believes a more effective approach requires a significant strengthening of the public sector and healthcare personnel as well as collaboration with the private sector, leveraging the available capacity and resources to address the healthcare challenges facing SA more effectively.

Despite progress, challenges such as healthcare personnel shortages persist, necessitating ongoing efforts in both the public and private sector to train, retrain, and deploy skilled professionals across the country.

As a leading private healthcare provider in SA, Life Healthcare exemplifies this commitment to quality and innovation. With over four decades of experience, its network across SA, Botswana, and Namibia offers a comprehensive range of services.

“We are committed to not only providing excellent healthcare but also building capacity within the system,” states Wharton-Hood.

“Our investment in training and development ensures we meet the future needs of our communities.”

ELEVATING STANDARDS

Life Healthcare’s integrated strategy links its hospitals and complementary, specialised services to deliver highquality services with an emphasis on patient-centred care.

Its comprehensive offerings include acute hospital services, specialised acute rehabilitation, renal dialysis, oncology, diagnostic imaging, radiology, nuclear medicine, and mental health and health risk management.

With a legacy built on trust and innovation, the group continuously strives to meet evolving patient needs.

“Our diverse range of healthcare services is tailored to address various medical conditions using advanced, modern technology and skilled staff,” Wharton-Hood affirms.

Aligned to its strategy, Life Healthcare was the first South African hospital provider to make all quality indicators per facility public on an annual basis. With quality being one of the key strategic pillars, continually

improving the safety and quality of care is core to the group’s mission.

Life Healthcare is committed to helping patients make the best possible decisions by providing them with clear, transparent insights. The group strongly believes that reporting on quality measures not only drives it to continuously improve and uphold the highest clinical standards but also provides patients with the necessary insights to be at the centre of their care pathway decision-making process.

HOW

HAS LIFE HEALTHCARE LEVERAGED ITS FORMER EUROPEAN FOOTPRINT TO IMPROVE SERVICES AND OPERATIONS IN SA?

Peter Wharton-Hood, Chief Executive (PWH): “Divesting from Alliance Medical Group (AMG) in January 2024 and selling LMI to Lantheus has unlocked shareholder value, strengthened our finances, and enabled us to focus on local growth.

“The experience gained from AMG’s imaging and nuclear businesses has enhanced our diagnostic capabilities, enabling us to enter the radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiopharmacy markets in SA with confidence.

“Our strong balance sheet provides the foundation for strategic investments and innovations that will shape SA’s healthcare future.”

AO: In addition, how has acquiring AMG enhanced your organisation’s capabilities or market reach?

PWH: “Whilst divestment was strategic, owning AMG for several years significantly improved our nuclear medicine and diagnostic expertise.

“This experience supports our growth in imaging services and ensures we can provide critical, innovative healthcare solutions locally across multiple modalities.”

Leading importer and distributor of premium medical and surgical consumables

Playing a vital role in South Africa’s private healthcare supply chain, 4SA Medical Supplies (4SA) supports Life Healthcare Group in providing better care, better systems, and better outcomes for all. We take a deeper look into the ways in which 4SA has become a leading importer and distributor of premium medical and surgical consumables.

As a trusted A+ Vendor to Life Healthcare, 4SA is proud to play a vital role in strengthening South Africa’s private healthcare supply chain. Since our inception in 2014, 4SA has grown into a leading importer and distributor of premium medical and surgical consumables, supplying not only Life Healthcare but also three other major private hospital groups in the country. Our continued partnership with Life Healthcare stands as a benchmark for reliability, quality, and strategic alignment.

“On time, every time, seamless supply and delivery”

Our relationship with Life Healthcare has developed into more than just a supplier-client arrangement — it is a strategic alliance built on mutual respect, operational transparency, and shared values. As one of Life Healthcare’s key partners, 4SA has worked collaboratively to eliminate supply chain disruptions, consistently ensuring the availability of critical medical and surgical products across their network. Our A+ rating reflects our commitment to service excellence, rapid response capabilities,

“A benchmark for reliability, quality, and strategic alignment”

and our deep understanding of the clinical needs of modern healthcare environments.

We pride ourselves on delivering top-tier consumables, incorporated in categories such as, Infusion Devices and Accessories, Airway and Respiratory Care, Textiles and Procedure Trays, Wound Care, Surgical Face Masks, and more. All of our products are manufactured to international standards, with certifications that meet stringent safety and performance criteria. Through our exclusive distribution partnerships — including the Medi-Star, Carefree, and Handtouch brands — 4SA ensures that Life Healthcare facilities receive the highest quality products at competitive prices.

“More than products –a promise of strategic partnerships”

What sets us apart is our customerfirst approach. Our dedicated service team, comprised of knowledgeable and experienced professionals, is always available to provide support, resolve issues, and anticipate client needs. Whether managing urgent orders, advising on product selections, or assisting with clinical transitions, our team is committed to seamless service delivery. We understand that when healthcare professionals rely on us, patient outcomes are on the line.

Over the years, 4SA has built a robust national distribution network that supports daily deliveries across South Africa, along with export capabilities into Southern Africa. This infrastructure has enabled us to meet high-volume, high-frequency demand without compromising on efficiency or service quality. Our internal culture of integrity, ethics, and professionalism ensures that every client — large or small — receives the same meticulous attention.

Our partnership with Life Healthcare is not just about product supply. It’s about co-creating solutions that support Life Healthcare’s broader goals, from costeffective procurement to ensuring uninterrupted patient care. Together, we are future-focused — investing in smarter logistics, enhanced inventory planning, and digital tools that increase visibility and reduce downtime.

“Where surgical supply meets service excellence”

Looking forward, we remain committed to being a reliable and responsive partner to Life Healthcare and the broader healthcare ecosystem. As the industry continues to evolve with growing patient demands and regulatory complexities, we will continue to adapt, innovate, and deliver with excellence.

In every box delivered and every call answered, 4SA is proud to be part of Life Healthcare’s success story — contributing to better care, better systems, and better outcomes for all.

+27 11 262 0067

“Our commitment to quality is demonstrated through international certifications, transparent reporting, and innovation-driven initiatives. For instance, our investments into value-based care (VBC) models have achieved improved clinical outcomes, enhanced the patient experience, and reduced overall costs to the schemes, aligning incentives for better health,” explains Wharton-Hood.

Mental healthcare is also a critical focus, with enhanced acute mental healthcare services aimed at supporting individuals during some of their most challenging times.

In addition, Life Healthcare offers renal dialysis treatments, ensuring patients with chronic kidney disease receive compassionate and effective care.

“Our oncology services provide comprehensive cancer treatment plans, whilst our diagnostic imaging capabilities utilise the latest technology for accurate and timely

“QUALITY IS ONE OF OUR KEY STRATEGIC PILLARS, AND CONTINUALLY IMPROVING THE SAFETY AND QUALITY OF CARE IS AT THE CORE OF OUR CULTURE”

– PETER WHARTON-HOOD, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, LIFE HEALTHCARE

GROUP

results. Furthermore, the group excels in nuclear medicine, providing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic solutions,” he acclaims.

A commitment to health risk management services is equally noteworthy, encompassing occupational health and wellness programmes that not only enhance employee health but also foster safer working environments.

This holistic approach underscores Life Healthcare’s dedication to delivering exceptional medical care and support for the well-being of individuals and communities alike.

ADVANCEMENTS IN CARE

Innovation is central to Life Healthcare’s vision. Recent initiatives exemplify this, including: Nuclear medicine and advanced imaging facilities: More people are surviving cancer today than ever before, with better awareness, early detection, and improved treatments all playing a part. However, there is another, often overlooked, contributor to this progress – medical imaging. Specifically, positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) is a

Celebrating a 25Year Partnership in Innovation and Patient Safety

ICU Medical SA (Pty) Ltd (ICU Medical) proudly reflects on a 25-year legacy of partnership, innovation, and clinical excellence in South Africa. In May 2000, ICU Medical was the first to introduce a comprehensive range of needle-free IV access systems to the South African market-led by the globally trusted Clave® device. This innovation marked a significant step forward in patient safety and infection control.

In 2006, we pioneered another breakthrough: the concept of catheter securement, with a particular focus on IV shortline securement. Life Groenkloof and Life Vincent Pallotti Hospitals were the first institutions in Southern Africa to adopt this technology. Nearly two decades later, securement remains a critical component of IV therapy and

is widely implemented across both private healthcare networks and key public hospitals throughout the country.

From the beginning, ICU Medical appointed DPR Pharmaceuticals (Pty) Ltd, trading as PRO Distributors, as its exclusive distributor in South Africa. This strategic alliance has thrived over the past 25 years. ICU Medical has led the way in clinical training, promotion, and product development, while PRO Distributors has focused on customer service excellence and financial operations. This dedicated division of responsibilities has consistently delivered outstanding clinical outcomes and exceptional customer experiences.

With the unwavering support of Life Healthcare and its dedicated clinical

and allied healthcare professionals, our partnership has contributed to PRO Distributors becoming a remarkable B-BBEE success story-reflecting true empowerment through collaboration.

ICU Medical continues to innovate, and Clave® remains the world’s leading needle-free IV access connector. This leadership aligns with our global mission and our payoff line, ‘Human Connections.’ It signifies not only our commitment to delivering worldclass clinical outcomes, but also our dedication to uplifting the people and communities we engage with. We commend Life Healthcare’s openness to new technology, and congratulate them on their newest hospital in Paarl, Western Cape.

We are honored to have contributed to your journey and look forward to continuing our shared commitment to excellence in healthcare.

ICU Medical – Human Connections. Clinical Innovation. Trusted Partnerships

powerful scan that is quietly changing outcomes – Life Healthcare is investing in two additional scanners to its current network of three, one at Life Vincent Palloti Hospital and another at Life Hilton Private Hospital.

These state-of-the-art facilities will improve diagnostic accuracy and enable earlier, more effective treatment of cancer patients.

One of the biggest challenges in treating cancer is knowing exactly where it is, how aggressive it might be, and how it is behaving. Traditional scans, like X-rays, CTs, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), show the structure of the body and the size and shape of tumours or abnormalities, but they can’t always help doctors to determine whether those abnormalities are cancerous or how metabolically active the cancer really is.

“That is where PET-CT makes a difference. It combines the two types of scans into one, capturing threedimensional images of the body’s biological functions to help doctors pinpoint the location of tumours or cancerous lesions, assess the extent of disease, determine whether lesions are benign or malignant, and identify any potential spread,” explains Wharton-Hood, adding that PET-CT is not used for all cancers of all patients.

“Its role depends on your specific diagnosis, the type of cancer, and how the treatment plan is structured, but for many cancers – including lymphoma, lung, breast, head and neck, colorectal, gynaecological, prostate, and melanoma – PET-CT is becoming integral in cancer care.

Radiopharmaceuticals: The installation of two cyclotrons in Gauteng to produce radiopharmaceuticals will result in a steady and reliable supply of radioisotopes used in molecular imaging and nuclear medicine. Isotypes are critical components for PET-CT and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)-CT scans.

The availability of locally produced radiopharmaceuticals will support the integration of advanced nuclear imaging services into cancer care.

Furthermore, this introduces the first vertically integrated molecular diagnostics service, ranging from producing isotopes to injecting and scanning patients, in Southern Africa. Through this partnership, the reliance on international access to isotypes will be reduced.

“This initiative is part of our broader strategy to enhance our oncology services and provide cutting-edge diagnostic tools for cancer care,” Wharton-Hood adds.

Cutting-edge imaging and surgical technology: A new interoperative MRI (iMRI) theatre – one of only 500 in the world and the only purpose-built iMRI in SA – is available at Life Groenkloof Hospital.

LIFE HEALTHCAREIN NUMBERS

• 8,308 registered beds.

• 297 surgical theatres.

• 39 emergency units.

• 16 catheterisation laboratories.

• Seven dedicated acute rehabilitation units.

• Nine dedicated acute mental health facilities.

• 71 renal dialysis units offering 1,012 renal stations.

• 10 imaging facilities.

• Three nuclear medicine facilities, including PET-CT and SPECT-CT.

• Five oncology units.

• Three Novalis Tx/Varian TrueBeam radiotherapy units and one Ethos AI adaptive radiotherapy (ART) system through Life Oncology, which has five facilities.

This purpose-built neurosurgery theatre is fully integrated with the most sophisticated neuroimaging MRI. The MRI scanner can be moved into the operating room, or the patient can be moved to the MRI room, allowing for real-time imaging without compromising the sterile environment.

“Having the MRI machine in theatre means that the images help the surgeon in real-time to see exactly where the tumour is and how much of it has been removed. If parts of the tumour remain, we then continue the resection, repeating until completed,” explains Wharton-Hood.

“This is a huge step forward for complex neurosurgery, allowing our surgeons to tackle more complex cranial and spinal procedures with increased confidence, resulting in better clinical outcomes by reducing the likelihood of repeat surgeries and minimising the risk of complications.”

Artificial intelligence (AI)-driven radiotherapy: The AI-driven Ethos radiotherapy system at Life Vincent Palloti Hospital enables daily adaptive treatments, minimising side effects and improving cancer care outcomes.

“This innovative system allows treatment plans to adapt to patients’ daily anatomical changes in real time, ensuring the precise targeting of tumours whilst minimising radiation exposure to healthy tissues. Unlike traditional methods that require time-consuming rescanning and replanning over two days, the Ethos system completes the process within 20 to 30 minutes, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of radiotherapy treatments,” WhartonHood informs us.

By personalising radiation treatments according to the unique anatomy of each patient on the day of their procedure, the Ethos system significantly enhances patient outcomes. This means less visits to the hospital, improving the overall patient experience.

“With a focus on individualised care, it empowers healthcare providers to deliver more effective and compassionate radiation therapy tailored to the specific needs of every patient,” Wharton-Hood says.

The Ethos radiotherapy system at Life Vincent Pallotti Hospital is already being used to treat patients with cervical, rectum, lung, and prostate cancer. In time, other cancers are hoped to be included in the treatment programme.

Robotic surgery: The Da Vinci Xi system, recently upgraded at Life St George’s Hospital, allows minimally invasive procedures across multiple disciplines, enhancing accuracy, reducing trauma, and shortening recovery times.

The system translates a surgeon’s hand movements in real time, ensuring unmatched accuracy. Its robotic-assisted instruments bend and rotate beyond human capability, enabling intricate procedures through tiny incisions.

High-definition, 3D magnified imaging provides unparalleled clarity, allowing for meticulous surgical execution.

“Through this technology, we are elevating our dedication to patientcentred care and promoting the best clinical outcomes in a number of surgical disciplines, including urology,

gynaecology, general surgery (for procedures such as hernia repair), colorectal, thoracic, cardiac, and head and neck surgeries,” Wharton-Hood shares.

Similarly, orthopaedic surgeons at Life Hilton Private Hospital and Life Wilgeheuwel Hospital are utilising the Robotic Surgical Assistant (ROSA) system designed for performing knee and hip replacements, providing better joint longevity.

“Our investment in these cuttingedge technologies demonstrates our commitment to leading healthcare innovation,” states Wharton-Hood.

“By adopting the latest advancements, we are not only improving patient outcomes but also setting new standards in healthcare delivery in SA.”

This suite of innovations exemplifies Life Healthcare’s dedication to leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes and operational efficiencies.

NAVIGATING HEALTH HURDLES

Despite notable achievements, the private healthcare sector faces ongoing challenges:

• Challenging economic conditions – rising costs and unemployment.

• Stagnant medical insurance market.

• Workforce shortages – particularly nurses and doctors.

• Hospital management complexities.

• Insured market provider consolidation trends.

“Addressing these hurdles requires a proactive and collaborative approach,” says Wharton-Hood.

“Our strategy focuses on three core elements – growing, driving, and optimising our business – to ensure it is best positioned for sustainable shareholder returns and growth in market share.”

Growth initiatives focus on expanding facilities via greenfield and brownfield projects, strategic acquisitions, and new service lines.

The upcoming development of a new hospital in Paarl exemplifies this, promising to bolster local access and stimulate community employment.

We deliver healthcare.

United Pharmaceutical Distributors (UPD) is a division of New Clicks South Africa Pty Ltd which is part of Clicks Group Limited, a proudly Top 20 JSE listed company. UPD has been delivering healthcare for the past 40 years as a wholesaler and distributor of pharmaceuticals, front shop products, and medical devices to the South African market. Headquartered in Gauteng, South Africa, UPD operates out of six distribution centres across the country.

UPD is a values-led business and seeks to live our values of passion for our customers, integrity, honesty, openness, being disciplined in our approach, mutual respect, and delivering on our goals.

These core values and alignment thereto of our 1,500 full-time and part-time employees contribute to UPD being the leading pharmaceutical wholesaler in the South African market.

UPD is committed to delivering on its transformation agenda and continuously implements projects and programmes to achieve these goals as this reflects our aspiration to be a responsible corporate citizen and steward of our planet for future generations.

Sustainability is integrated into our strategic and operational planning processes; to ensure internal alignment, our short-term and long-term incentives are linked to ESG metrics.

In support of our sustainability agenda, UPD introduced South Africa’s first fleet of zeroemission, pharma-compliant electric vehicles (EVs) with solar-powered refrigeration. The fleet of 42 EVs features an industry-first refrigerated cargo box powered entirely by solar energy.

Locally fitted and made from lightweight composite structural PVC, the innovative refrigeration boxes are 50% (200 kilogrammes) lighter than standard models, making them a truly green solution.

These vehicles are owned by UPD drivers under an owner-driver scheme supporting the sustainable growth of independent drivers. Furthermore, 27% of the EVs are owned by Black female entrepreneurs, driving both transformation and sustainability in the logistics sector.

Additionally, UPD has invested in reusable packaging incorporating the use of recycled plastic totes and new multi-use cold chain delivery solutions.

Business continuity is integral to our customer service offering and include energy back up generation across all distribution centres as well as off-grid capabilities through solar power generation. We continue to invest in technology and have upgraded our IT systems to create worldclass infrastructure in both our enterprise resource and warehouse management systems.

These initiatives reflect UPD’s commitment to reducing our environmental impact, empowering small businesses, and building a healthier, more sustainable future.

team and staff, we wish Life Healthcare Group

“The Life Paarl Valley Hospital project is testament to our long-term commitment to community health,” Wharton-Hood asserts.

“It will create jobs, improve healthcare access, and contribute to local economic growth.”

STRENGTH IN UNITING FORCES

As SA’s healthcare landscape evolves, collaboration becomes more crucial.

“We must continue to strengthen partnerships with government and other stakeholders to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability,” urges Wharton-Hood.

“Closer cooperation between public and private sectors is vital to overcoming challenges and improving service delivery. Our Life Nkanyisa initiatives exemplify this, providing healthcare to the most vulnerable public patients on behalf of the government.”

Strategic alliances and communityfocused programmes amplify impact. Corporate social investment (CSI) is

“WE ENSURE THAT PATIENTS RECEIVE QUALITY HEALTHCARE TAILORED TO THEIR INDIVIDUAL NEEDS THROUGH IMPROVED CLINICAL AND QUALITY OUTCOMES, EFFICIENCY, AND AN OUTSTANDING PATIENT EXPERIENCE”

– PETER WHARTON-HOOD, CHIEF EXECUTIVE, LIFE HEALTHCARE GROUP

an integral part of Life Healthcare’s ethos, reflecting its commitment of being closely involved with the communities it serves.

“We are dedicated to social upliftment, and our CSI initiatives embody our purpose of making life better,” he adds.

As a leading player in the delivery of healthcare, the group is uniquely positioned to enhance health outcomes across Southern Africa and empower communities to take ownership of their health on both individual and collective levels.

Strategically significant programmes are managed at the national level, whilst other CSI initiatives are driven by local needs.

The group’s three primary focus areas are healthcare access, education and training, and community upliftment.

“Our partnership with the South African National Council for the Blind (SANCB), spanning two decades, delivers mobile eye care to rural and peri-urban areas, significantly improving access for underserved populations,” notes Wharton-Hood.

Life Healthcare’s support since

Advancing science for more meaningful innovation

Advancing science goes beyond new technologies It involves deep collaboration, smart risk-taking and creating tailored solutions When we tackle healthcare’s greatest challenges together, meaningful innovation can result in better outcomes, shorter hospital stays, reduced cost of care and faster recover y for patients.

-AA

Bidvest Prestige Healthcare Cleaning Solutions

Bidvest Prestige has been a leader in advancing cleaning solutions across various industries for over five decades, and our commitment to progress persists. We remain industry pioneers, continuously adapting and integrating solutions as needed. This ongoing innovation enables us to deliver cleaner, safer, and healthier environments for our clients, seamlessly integrating into your business model. This ensures you can stay focused on your core business activities.

Bidvest Steiner

In healthcare, hygiene isn’t optional — it’s essential.

At Bidvest Steiner, we understand the critical role cleanliness plays in protecting patients, staff, and visitors across Africa’s hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities.

With over 60 years of experience and national reach, our hygiene solutions are designed to meet the highest industry standards — and exceed expectations.

From state-of-the-art sanitary disposal units, air care, and hand hygiene systems, to targeted pest control and deep cleaning services, Bidvest Steiner delivers tailored hygiene programmes that ensure peace of mind and regulatory compliance.

From hospitals and clinics to aged care facilities, Bidvest Steiner is trusted to maintain environments where hygiene saves lives.

2006 has enabled 79,000 screened patients to date through four mobile eye clinics fitted with mobile ophthalmic equipment.

The mobile screening provides essential eye examinations where glasses are also provided with referrals made for further treatment. The programme has seen 24,000 cataract surgeries undertaken with provincial hospitals in rural and periurban areas.

Since 2018, Life Healthcare has been the sole sponsor of SANCB’s Optima College, which provides vocational and life skills training for visually impaired students and trains 120 students annually in a one-year Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA)-accredited programme.

The curriculum includes essential topics such as computer skills, contact centre support, business administration services, and braille literacy. Additionally, over 250 students have benefitted from various

short courses offered by the college.

To enhance the learning experience, computer laboratories have been established in seven training centres, equipped with adaptive software, printers, and internet connectivity.

More recently, collaborations with Operation Smile and PinkDrive exemplify the group’s commitment to indigent populations.

Lives are being transformed through Operation Smile’s surgical procedures for children with cleft lips and palates; Life Healthcare’s recent support goes far beyond financial assistance for these children.

“Our sponsorship is an investment in the future of these children. It means once they’ve recovered and healed from their surgery, they will no longer be bullied, teased, or outcast in their communities because of their cleft deformity,” says Wharton-Hood.

In partnership with PinkDrive, SA’s best-known mobile cancer screening not-for-profit company, Life Healthcare has supported mobile

screening and education tours to rural and peri-urban areas.

These tours provide mammography, cervical pap smears, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening and tests to disadvantaged state patients and their communities by using mobile mammography trucks.

This enables PinkDrive to significantly enhance public health, ensuring more people benefit from early detection.

In addition to this ongoing support, Life Healthcare has just renewed its commitment to PinkDrive to deliver critical mammography services at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital in support of the Gauteng Department of Health.

“Investing in healthcare infrastructure and technology remains critical to meet increasing demand,” he adds.

“Our VBC models have proven effective in improving outcomes and reducing costs.”

Your local link to global innovation.

More than just a supplier, Cardiac Output is a trusted clinical partner delivering fast, transparent and clinically focused distribution to the South African healthcare industry for over 35 years.

Cardiac Output connects South African clinicians with worldleading cardiovascular and surgical technologies, ensuring every procedure is supported by reliable devices and expert service.

Our dedicated team offers rapid delivery, clinical insights, and transparent pricing to support hospitals, specialists, and procurement departments throughout the country. For over 35 years, our mission has been clear: to provide trusted solutions that save lives and improve patient outcomes.

As a proud subsidiary of the group, Life Nkanyisa has been a cornerstone of healthcare service delivery to the public sector for over 50 years.

The name Nkanyisa, which translates to ‘bringer of light’, reflects the organisation’s commitment to illuminating the path to wellness for those it serves. Life Nkanyisa’s core values are quality, compassion, dignity, and respect, with a focus on enhancing quality of life and community regeneration.

For the most vulnerable members of society, clinical treatment and care that focuses on recovery and rehabilitation can mitigate the effects of institutionalisation, enabling patients to lead fulfilling lives with enhanced competencies and skills and enjoy increased developmental support.

The business operates across four provinces – Eastern

VBC emphasises the importance of collaboration, communication, and coordination amongst healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive comprehensive and personalised care that meets their specific needs.

This approach recognises that healthcare is a complex system and that addressing patients’ physical, mental, and social needs holistically leads to better outcomes and overall well-being.

In the current private healthcare system, doctors and hospitals are mostly reimbursed for the volume of patients they see or procedures they do.

VBC shifts the focus from volume of services to quality and value, encouraging healthcare providers to prioritise preventative care, early interventions, and evidence-based practices.

“Through the success of our integrated renal care programme piloted in 2022, we were pleased to have negotiated our first renal VBC contract with leading medical schemes (health insurance funders),” Wharton-Hood tells us.

Cape, Gauteng, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga – with 2,308 registered beds through a network of seven facilities.

With a strong emphasis on patient-centred, compassionate care, Life Nkanyisa strives to ensure the highest standards of healthcare excellence. Its comprehensive offerings include frail care, intermediate care, primary healthcare, children’s and chronic mental health, and dedicated substance abuse recovery services, catering to the unique needs of its diverse patient population.

Additionally, as a trusted third-party primary healthcare provider for the Department of Correctional Services, Life Nkanyisa plays a vital role in promoting health and wellbeing within a correctional facility.

Through its unwavering dedication, Life Nkanyisa remains a beacon of hope and healing in the community.

The contract promotes improved patient outcomes and shared value whilst providing the patient with the financial structure for the holistic care that they require.

Additionally, the programme focuses on giving patients with chronic kidney disease a better understanding of their condition and their treatment, ensuring they do not feel alone on their renal dialysis journey.

This has resulted in better management of chronic renal conditions, reduced hospital admissions, and improved overall health outcomes.

“Value is created through the enhancement of the patient experience and improvement of quality of care and patient outcomes,” insights Wharton-Hood.

Looking ahead, Life Healthcare is committed to evaluating future

AWARD WINNING SUPPLIER TO LIFE HEALTHCARE, SUPPLYING OVER 300 TRANSACTIONAL AND MEDICAL PRINTED DOCUMENTS SINCE 2005

• Nursing:

- ICU Charts

- Road to Health Booklets

• Administration:

- Patient Administration Documents

- Patient Files/Books

• Pharmaceutical

- Continuous receipts and prescription documents

- Labels

• Innovative national blood testing booklets with integrated vile labels

- Cytology

- Pathology/ HIV

• National aids survey 2025

- Kitting and national distribution of printed documents and medical supplies

• Various government medical projects throughout Africa

Get in touch

17 Intersite Avenue, Umgeni Business Park, Durban, 4051 031 072 0002 www.uniprint.co.za

johnathan.moonsamy@uniprint.co.za

THE POWER OF THREE

The Life Healthcare strategy – grow, drive, and optimise – has cemented its leadership.

• Leading acute hospital network provider in SA.

• Leading renal dialysis provider through the acquisition of Fresenius Medical Care renal dialysis clinics in Southern Africa.

• Leading private mental healthcare provider in SA.

• Leader in oncology, radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiopharmacy.

• Growth in radiology and nuclear medicine driven by acquisitions.

• First to invest in radiopharmacy cyclotron commercial production, launching in 2025.

investments aligned with industry trends – such as AI, diagnostics, and nuclear medicine – aimed at enhancing patient care and operational efficiency.

“Increased adoption of preventative measures, early detection, and integrated care models will shape the future, where hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic units work seamlessly together to provide comprehensive care,” he predicts.

“Our focus remains on innovative, inclusive solutions that make quality healthcare accessible to more individuals.”

POSITIVELY IMPACTING COMMUNITIES

This collaborative approach not only stimulates economic growth but also reinforces Life Healthcare’s commitment to Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), fostering equitable participation across its sectors.

“When examining our investment in nuclear medicine, our joint venture with AXIM Group, namely Axim Life Isotopes, enhances local radiopharmacy capabilities whilst reducing reliance on imports,” Wharton-Hood explains.

Further expanding its footprint, Life Healthcare is building a 140-bed hospital, reflecting strong financial health and community commitment.

The upcoming Life Paarl Valley Hospital, opening in 2027, promises to be a catalyst for revitalisation, offering modern facilities and community amenities.

As the second private acute hospital in the Paarl region and the only facility offering specialised cardiac services, it is poised to attract patients from the larger Boland area.

It will offer a comprehensive range of specialist services, including a cardiac catheterisation laboratory, cardiothoracic unit, intensive care unit (ICU), paediatric ICU, and neonatal facilities, amongst other specialist services and a 24-hour emergency unit.

An estimated 60 specialist doctors and allied professionals will be provided practice opportunities at the hospital. Furthermore, employment of nursing and support services staff will contribute to a total employment impact of approximately 360 jobs. The facility is being designed with future expansion in mind to accommodate growing healthcare needs.

Throughout its journey of growth and innovation, Life Healthcare has exemplified resilience.

“Our recent divestments, including the sale of AMG and Life Molecular Imaging (LMI), have unlocked significant shareholder value and strengthened our financial position,” Wharton-Hood notes.

“Our disposal of AMG in 2024 for ZAR21 billion received the Dealmakers Deal of the Year Award, recognising an almost two-year effort in structuring and executing a transaction that took almost 19 months and spanned circa 21 international jurisdictions.”

Life Healthcare’s disposal of LMI only a year later for upfront and potential earn-outs of ZAR13.5 billion was also a significant milestone.

“Navigating challenges whilst delivering growth energises us to continually improve. Our vision is clear – making life better for all through excellence, innovation, and collaboration,” Wharton-Hood outlines earnestly.

Life Healthcare stands at the forefront of transforming healthcare delivery in Southern Africa through its commitment to quality, patientcentred care, and innovative approaches by addressing disparities in access and emphasising a culture of continuous improvement.

The group is not only enhancing the lives of individuals but also advocating for a more equitable healthcare landscape.

As the private healthcare sector continues to navigate its challenges, Life Healthcare’s strategic focus on VBC and collaboration will pave the way for sustainable healthcare solutions that benefit all members of the community.

Ultimately, the future of healthcare in the region depends on organisations such as Life Healthcare that prioritise excellence and inclusivity in their mission to deliver exceptional medical services.

“Central to our current and ongoing success into the future is the resilience, dedication, and unwavering support of our employees and nurses, as well as our partnership with doctors and other healthcare professionals who continue to show unlimited loyalty and trust in Life Healthcare. Trust is essential to our success, and we are dedicated to upholding it through our purpose of making life better,” concludes Wharton-Hood. Tel: +27 11 219 9000