clinic card

Clinic Card Replacement Guide in South Africa: 10 Important Things You Need to Know

Bymyadmin

Losing your clinic card can be stressful — especially if you rely on it for medication, check-ups, or your child’s immunisations. Here’s a clear, numbered guide to help you replace it quickly and avoid problems.

What Is a Clinic Card?

A clinic card (also called a clinic book or Road to Health booklet for children) is issued by public healthcare facilities under the Department of Health.

It contains:

  • Personal details
  • Medical history
  • Immunisation records
  • Chronic medication information
  • Pregnancy records
  • Visit history

10 Things You Must Know About Replacing a Clinic Card

1. You Must Go to a Public Clinic

Visit:

  • The clinic where you first registered (recommended), or
  • Your nearest government clinic

Private doctors do not replace public clinic cards.

2. Bring the Correct Documents

Take:

  • Your South African ID or Smart ID
  • Child’s birth certificate (for children)
  • Any hospital letters or prescriptions (if available)
  • Proof of address (sometimes requested)

3. Replacement Is Usually Low-Cost or Free

In most provinces, replacing a clinic card is:

  • Free, or
  • Between R5 and R20

Fees vary depending on the clinic.

4. You May Need to Complete a Form

Some clinics require you to:

  • Fill in a lost card declaration form
  • Provide basic personal details again

5. Your Records Are Still in the System

Even if your card is lost:

  • Clinics keep patient files
  • Your folder number can be traced using your ID
  • Chronic medication records can be retrieved

This makes replacement easier.

6. Children’s Clinic Cards (Road to Health Booklet)

For children, the Road to Health booklet includes:

  • Vaccination dates
  • Growth charts
  • Development milestones

If lost:

  • Inform the clinic immediately
  • Nurses will update a new booklet using clinic records

7. It May Take Some Time

Replacement can take:

  • 15–60 minutes depending on queues
  • Longer if files need manual retrieval

Go early to avoid long waiting times.

8. Chronic Medication Patients Should Act Quickly

If you collect chronic medication (HIV, TB, diabetes, hypertension, etc.), replace your card before your next collection date to avoid delays.

9. Lost Cards Do Not Affect Your Access to Care

You will not be denied treatment because your card is lost. Healthcare is your right under the public health system managed by the Department of Health.

10. How to Avoid Losing Your Clinic Card Again

  • Keep it in a plastic cover
  • Store it with important documents
  • Take a photo of key pages
  • Do not fold or damage it

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