‘JP’ is Emeritus Professor of the University of Cape Town where he was Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. He is an Emeritus Editor of the South African Medical Journal and started three new journals including the South African Journal of Bioethics and Law. He was a member of the World Federation for Medical Education task team that developed Global Standards for Quality Improvement of Medical Education. Other activities included: Member of the Health Professions Council (1990-2004); President of the South African Medical Association; and President of the Association of Medical Schools of Africa.

Since its inception he has been involved with the Hospice Palliative Care Association (HPCA), was its chairman (1993-2006), and is currently a patron. He is a founder member of the Board of SADPI (the South African Drug Policy Initiative) that advocates for humane, rational drug laws to reduce drug-related harms.

Until well-earned artificial hips 30 years ago he was a keen squash player representing the Free State and Western Province for 15 years and South Africa as veteran; now enjoys hiking and exploring (including the mind).