Health Dept admits it’s overwhelmed, obligated to treat foreign nationals

JOHANNESBURG - The Health Department admits it’s overwhelmed, saying public hospitals and clinics have no choice but to treat foreign nationals, even as the system buckles under pressure.

Deputy Health Minister Joe Phaahla and Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko toured the Olivenhoutbosch Clinic on Tuesday after residents raised alarms over long queues, medicine stockouts, and understaffing.

Despite the Gauteng Department of Health budget being fully allocated, officials say resources are stretched thin, with migrant care being a major strain on the system.

Section 4(3) of the National Health Act guarantees free basic medical care to anyone in need, regardless of citizenship or immigration status.

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This means undocumented individuals can access public healthcare without requiring medical aid, including maternity care, emergency treatment and child health services.

A 2007 national directive goes further, promising free HIV and TB treatment to all, as South Africa seeks to tackle its epidemic burden.

But with patient numbers growing and public facilities under immense pressure, Phaahla admits the system is nearing breaking point.

“We’ve been discussing at our national health council… are there possibilities of assistance from foreign governments? It’s a problem we are stuck with. As things stand, we just have to be ready.”

Phaahla says several expansion projects have been delayed, as the government waits for final approval of the national budget framework.

He says without policy reform or additional funding, the health system will continue struggling to cope.