South African Doctor Finds Success in US Residency After Medical Training

• A doctor from South Africa has successfully secured a residency at the WellSpan Health/York Hospital Program in the US
• Jacobus Schutte graduated in 2023 from St George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine in Grenada
• Dr Schutte shared his inspiring journey from SGU to securing a US residency with Briefly News

Growing up in South Africa, Dr Jacobus Schutte had dreams of becoming a professional rugby player. But fate had other plans.

At the age of 12, Dr Schutte saw a tragic accident while travelling with his parents. His father, who is a medical doctor, stepped in and handled the situation leaving a lasting impression on him.

His passion for helping people in need of medical care became the driving force behind his decision to pursue medicine. This passion was further fuelled by being surrounded by his father’s colleagues.

He witness firsthand his father's colleagues in the operating room executing their skill with compassion. This experiences solidified his desire to pursue a career in surgery.

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Studying at St George’s University

This passion took him SGU in Grenada, West Indies, where he engaged in a robust curriculum that focused on academic excellence.

‘‘SGU offered me a clear path to achieving my dream of becoming a doctor,” he said.

Securing a US residency

The highlight of his academic journey came when he secured a medical residency at the WellSpan Health/York Hospital Program along with his fiancée.

Looking forward, Dr Schutte aims to become a leader in his speciality, advance research in surgical knowledge, and advocate for access to quality healthcare for marginalised communities.

His volunteering experience in rural South Africa led him to start an NGO focusing on providing essential surgeries to marginalised communities.

"I aim to address healthcare disparities and ensure that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, has access to the surgical care they need,” he added.

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Source: Briefly News