Abstract:
This short report describes the role that family physicians (FPs) (and family medicine registrars)
played to provide care for the homeless people in shelters (both temporary and permanent)
during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown in the City of Tshwane, South
Africa. The lockdown resulted in the establishment of a large number of temporary shelters.
The FPs took on the task to provide comprehensive and coordinated primary care, whilst
extending their activities in terms of data management, quality improvement, capacity
building and research. The FPs worked in teams with other healthcare providers and
contributed a unique set of skills to the process. This report demonstrates the value of
responding quickly and appropriately through communication, cooperation and innovation.
It also demonstrates the large number of areas in which FPs can make a difference when
engaged appropriately, with the necessary support and collaboration, thus making a positive
impact in the already overburdened health services.
