Thousands Of Patients Are Still Waiting For Life-Changing Surgery
Across South Africa, thousands of public-sector patients remain on waiting lists for essential elective surgery. For many individuals requiring hip and knee replacement procedures, delayed treatment means years of chronic pain, reduced mobility, emotional strain, and loss of independence.
For Many Patients, Waiting Means More Than Pain
Patients waiting for orthopaedic surgery often live with severe chronic pain, reduced mobility, and growing emotional and financial strain. Many lose the ability to work, care for their families, or perform simple daily activities independently.
For some individuals, years spent waiting for treatment result in declining physical health, social isolation, emotional distress, and increasing dependence on loved ones for support.
The impact extends far beyond the medical condition itself — affecting families, livelihoods, emotional wellbeing, and overall quality of life.
The Healthcare System Continues To Face Growing Demand
Public hospitals across South Africa continue to operate under severe pressure due to increasing patient volumes, limited theatre availability, staffing constraints, and emergency trauma demands.
The challenge is not a lack of medical expertise — it is a shortage of sustainable capacity and coordinated support.
1,800+
Patients On Orthopaedic Waiting Lists
Up To 5 Years
Average Waiting Period For Surgery
Limited Theatre Access
Creates Ongoing Surgical Delays
Emergency Cases
Often Prioritised Over Elective Surgery
Restoring Mobility Can Transform A Life
Hip and knee replacement surgery is widely recognised as one of the most effective interventions for restoring mobility, reducing chronic pain, and improving long-term quality of life.
For many patients, successful joint replacement surgery means the ability to walk independently again, return to work, care for family members, and regain confidence and dignity after years of physical limitation.
By focusing initially on hip and knee replacement surgery, The Goodness Project is able to target a high-impact area where collaborative partnerships can create measurable and life-changing outcomes.
Collaboration Creates Capacity, Hope & Sustainable Impact
The Goodness Project exists to help bridge the gap between public healthcare demand and available surgical capacity through structured partnerships between public hospitals, private healthcare providers, donors, and compassionate communities.
By unlocking additional theatre capacity and coordinating long-term support systems, the organisation helps create sustainable opportunities for patients to access life-changing surgery.
Public Healthcare Institutions
Private Hospital Groups
Donor & Philanthropic Partners
Faith & Community Networks
Every Partnership Helps Restore Mobility, Dignity & Hope
Together, we can help reduce surgical waiting lists, restore independence for patients and families, and strengthen healthcare partnerships that create lasting impact across South Africa.