Ramaphosa commits to proceeding with preparatory work for setting up NHI
The implementation of a national health insurance is still a sticking point between the ANC and the DA, with Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi on Thursday saying he’s unaware of talks to amend provisions on private medical schemes.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered the State of the Nation address at the Cape Town City Hall on 6 February 2025. Picture: Rodger Bosch/AFP
CAPE TOWN - President Cyril Ramaphosa has committed to proceed with the preparatory work for setting up a national health insurance (NHI).
After confusion reigned ahead of Thursday night’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) whether amendments would be made to protect private medical schemes, Ramaphosa gave no further clarity on this matter.
He did, however, express concern about the impact of the US permanently withdrawing its funding of HIV/AIDS programmes beyond the current 90-day review period.
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The implementation of a national health insurance is still a sticking point between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA), with Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi on Thursday saying he’s unaware of talks to amend provisions on private medical schemes.
President Cyril Ramaphosa too gave nothing away, saying only that the first phase of laying the groundwork would include the introduction of a single electronic health record, the establishment of a ministerial advisory committee on technology and healthcare benefits, and an accreditation framework for health service providers.
"The NHI will reduce inequalities in healthcare by ensuring that everyone gets fair medical treatment."
Ramaphosa said that the health department was also grappling with the impact of losing 17% of the country’s HIV spend should the US permanently cancel its aid.
"We are looking at various interventions to address the immediate needs and ensure the continuity of the essential services that we might lose if this funding does not come through."
Government aims to launch a massive campaign this year to get another 1.1 million people on anti-retroviral treatment.