From Pharmacy to Gastroenterology – the unique story of a Mandela Alumnus
In this week's Mandela Alumni Connect feature, we celebrate the remarkable journey of, Dr Dale Peterson BPharm ’03 MSc (Pharmaceutical Chemistry)’05, a proud Nelson Mandela University alumnus and distinguished gastroenterologist (Digestive System Specialist), whose groundbreaking work in digestive health is making a profound impact on the community at Melomed Tokai Hospital.
Despite his achievements in pharmacy, Dr Peterson felt a strong calling toward direct patient care, leading him to transition into clinical medicine by completing a MBChB at the University of Witwatersrand in 2011.
He further specialised, earning his FCP(SA) and MMed in Internal Medicine from the University of Stellenbosch in 2020. His passion for gastroenterology led him to obtain his sub-specialty certification and join the South African Gastroenterology Society (SAGES), marking another significant milestone in his career.
Dr Peterson started his career as a pharmacist working at pharmacies like Kempston Road Pharmacy in Gqeberha and Mill Park Pharmacy in Johannesburg. He later served as a Medical Officer at hospitals such as Livingstone Hospital and Dora Nginza Tertiary Hospital in Gqeberha. His tenure at Tygerberg Hospital in Cape Town was particularly notable, where he evolved from a Medical Intern to an Internal Medicine Consultant and played an integral role in the IPC COVID-19 vaccination programme.
What truly sets Dr Peterson apart is his unique blend of clinical insight and human touch. He believes in the holistic well-being of his patients, a philosophy nurtured during his early days in pharmaceutical care. His dedication to community outreach is evident from his work with the Phelophepa Healthcare Train in 2003 and 2004.
Dr Peterson's extensive experience in both pharmaceuticals and medicine provides him with a unique perspective on patient care. He addresses gastroenterological concerns with unmatched proficiency, offering a compassionate and expert approach to patient care. Recently, Melomed Tokai Hospital proudly announced the successful implementation of a groundbreaking procedure for treating chronic heartburn, known as Endoscopic Full Thickness Plication (eFTP) using the GERDX device. This innovative technique, performed by Dr Dale Peterson and General Surgeon Dr Mdumo Moshwana, offers new hope for patients suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Dr Petersen shared “My experience at NMMU can be encapsulated as an awakening of dormant social, academic and spiritual potential. Social potential as the diverse student body of varying cultures, socio economic backgrounds and belief systems and interacting with such a diverse student body allows one to gage society as a whole and really created an environment for more well-rounded and balanced individual.”
He further shared “Being a part of an academic student body all striving towards academic excellence in pursuit of making their claim in this world really forces one to tap into unused academic potential, but despite tapping into these avenues of potential both social and academic you come to the realisation that you cannot lean on your own understanding and this drew me closer to my belief in my God.”
Dr Dale Peterson’s progression from a pharmacist to a leading gastroenterologist highlights his dedication, expertise, and steadfast commitment to patient care. His pioneering work in digestive health not only inspires but also profoundly impacts the lives of many. #HealthcareHeroes #DigestiveHealth #MedicalInnovator #MandelaAlumni #Inspiration #MedicalResearch
Mandela Alumni Fact: Dr Dale Peterson is the first Pharmacy graduate to specialise in gastroenterology.