Dr Ruth Ward graduated with MBChB from Wits in 1984. She completed a postgraduate Diploma in Child Health from Colleges of Medicine SA and is a certified Family Medicine Specialist.  

Ruth has worked in general practice for many years, including starting two of her own practice's in Johannesburg. She has also obtained a Bachelor's in Theology with a Major in Pastoral Care, and a Masters in Biblical Studies, and has been involved in counselling at Rosebank Union Church for 15 years.

Dr Ward's three grown children live in Cape Town and she has thus relocated from Johannesburg with her husband, Michael. Michael is a professor of corporate finance at GIBS, University of Pretoria.