Medical association SAMATU hails adoption of NHI Bill

The adoption of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill represents a monumental achievement in South Africa’s journey towards accomplishing universal health coverage, South African Medical Association Trade Union (SAMATU) said.

The union commended the Ministry of Health for the strides made in the implementation of the NHI Bill, which was passed by the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament, Cape Town, on Wednesday.

“This milestone signifies that the nation realises the importance of universal health coverage as a means of addressing the inequalities that exist in the current healthcare system,” SAMATU General Secretary, Dr. Cedric Sihlangu said.

READ MORE: Half of humanity lacks basic health services – report.

The union noted with great satisfaction the Ministry’s inclusive and comprehensive approach, particularly through robust stakeholder engagements and a well-considered phased NHI Bill implementation strategy.

Sihlangu said SAMATU views these efforts as “key components for the successful execution of this critical healthcare reform.”

The General Secretary’s remarks come as Health Minister, Dr. Joe Phaahla, described the adoption of the bill as a historic and important milestone.

Phaahla reiterated that the Ministry has since developed and adopted a comprehensive approach to stakeholder engagement to ensure diverse perspectives are considered as the country forges ahead with implementing NHI.

“Regarding the next key steps, we look forward to the Bill being forwarded to the President for consideration and promulgation. Once it receives Presidential assent, the Bill will become an Act of Parliament, creating a statutory mandate for the Minister and the National Department of Health,” Phaahla explained.

The NHI Bill seeks to provide universal access to health care services in the country, in accordance with the National Health Insurance White Paper and the Constitution of South Africa.

Furthermore, the Bill envisages the establishment of a National Health Insurance Fund and sets out its powers, functions and governance structures. The fund will purchase health care services for all users who will be registered.