Where we  are with universal health care......... 

ANC determined to bring in NHI in long term

The National Health Insurance (NHI) proposals are at a decisive point.  Despite promises made in support of the GNU, the government appears to be stalling on issues surrounding private medical aid cover and  how it may, or may not fit, into the long-term plan for universal health care being mapped out by government.  Meanwhile, the minister in charge appears fixated on pushing through the proposals as they stand.

For many South Africans, concerns regarding the future of medical aid plans are a significant source of anxiety, particularly in the context of the current cost of living crisis. The notion of a 30% increase in personal tax with the NHI fully implemented is regarded by most as unacceptable.

Up in the air

For the medical community and the pharmaceutical industry, the continued uncertainty surrounding the application of NHI is not only discouraging in terms of investment and future planning but also profoundly frustrating, added to which the Department of Health is fighting a rear-guard action over NHI generally with the courts leaving a query as to what portions of the proposals might change.

While the idea of adopting universal health care seems generally acceptable, the prospect of endorsing a scheme that professionals deem unworkable, financially unsustainable, and unlikely to deliver results has created a medical crisis.