It’s been just over six months since Dr van der Merwe took up his post at the Oude Pastorie Clinic in Greyton, and in that short time he has become a calm, capable — and very welcome — presence in our valley’s healthcare landscape.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time here,” says Dr van der Merwe, who was born in Rhodes and always knew he wanted to return to a small village. “The clinic has exceeded my expectations. I wanted to be more than just a GP with a stethoscope — we have now been able to create a fully equipped point-of-care facility.”
One concern is that some residents delay seeking help. “Sometimes people aren’t aware the clinic is here. Come in sooner rather than later — we can often prevent bigger problems down the line.”
Today, the clinic boasts point-of-care laboratory capabilities, advanced life support with a ventilator and defibrillator, ultrasound, ECG, stress ECG, 24-hour blood pressure monitoring, and even medical aid health checks. Mothers and babies are welcome with family planning and immunisations. Home visits and chronic disease management are all available.
