MBChB(Stell), HIV Dip Management(SA),
MMed Int Med(Wits), FCP(SA), Cert Nephrology(SA)
MMed Int Med(Wits), FCP(SA), Cert Nephrology(SA)
Dr Leigh Johannes, a Specialist Physician and Nephrologist, recently joined Life Knysna Hospital, bringing her expertise and passion for renal health to the team.
The choice of this multi-disciplinary hospital for her practice was driven by the desire to make a difference in the lives of patients by ensuring everyone receives the medical care they require, especially those with hypertension and diabetes.
Her academic journey began at Stellenbosch University, where she completed a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery in 2013. This was followed by a Diploma in HIV Management in 2017 and a Master of Medicine in Internal Medicine from the University of the Witwatersrand in 2021 along with her Fellowship as a Physician. She further specialized in nephrology, obtaining her Certificate in Nephrology of the College of Physicians (SA) in 2023.
Her professional experience is extensive, having served as a Medical Officer at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and Thelle Mogerane Regional Hospital. Dr Johannes then progressed to a Nephrology Fellow at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, where she honed her skills in nephrology. She also served as a Specialist Physician at VWG Nephrology Group Practice and various medical centres, gaining valuable experience in the field.
Dr Johannes's interest in nephrology was sparked during her community service, where she was deeply moved by the transformative impact of renal transplants on patients' lives. She witnessed firsthand how these procedures could free patients from the constraints of chronic dialysis, significantly improving their quality of life. This experience solidified her commitment to nephrology, particularly in addressing kidney disease, a major yet largely underrecognized health issue in South Africa.
Setting up practice at Life Knysna Hospital represents an exciting new chapter for Dr Johannes. It offers her the opportunity to provide care for patients with renal disease in its complexity ensuring early diagnosis and intervention along with optimal targets of care to prevent deterioration of renal disease. With her experience in critical care nephrology and management of acute kidney injury she hopes to make a positive impact on the region. She is passionate about preventative medicine and early transplant work up.
Outside of her professional life, Dr Johannes is an avid traveller, particularly enjoying exploring the diverse cultures and landscapes of Africa. She also has a passion for cooking, baking, and kickboxing, and is interested in expanding her skills in mixed martial arts.
Dr Johannes's approach to patient care is characterized by her commitment to education and counselling, ensuring that patients and their families are well-informed and supported throughout their treatment journey. Her move to Knysna Life Hospital is a step forward in her mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by kidney disease.
