In May 2023 I wrote a post titled “National Health Insurance … will logic prevail?” Now a year later, in May 2024, it appears to me that emotion and political necessity rather than logic has prevailed certainly amongst the ruling party. I do not intend to repeat an analysis of what is contained in the now NHI Act signed by President Ramaphosa but rather to consider the consequences of his doing so 15 days prior to a general election in which the political party which he heads faces for the first time possible, but probably unlikely, election defeat. The President has defended his actions with the argument that the delay…
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National Health Insurance in South Africa … will logic prevail?
Following my last post describing an analogy between the space shuttle disasters and the possibility of a system failure following the envisaged implementation of National Health Insurance (NHI) in South Africa my thoughts have returned to what I wrote in March 2022. This post reflected on the alternatives to what is proposed in the South African model of NHI. As I wrote then since 1994 the divide between those who have the ability to afford what in South Africa is termed private healthcare and those dependent on the State operated Public Health Service for the provision of healthcare has regrettably grown. The widening gap cannot be laid at the door…
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What lessons were learned from the COVID-19 pandemic?
I often read, and at times hear, that many lessons were learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been said by some that these can be used to determine the future direction of health care. I have been reflecting on whether there were lessons to be learned and, if so, to what extent they provide insights into the future of healthcare in South Africa. From the position now as an outsider to the mainstream of healthcare policy and management I am aware that the efforts of many in the health sector across the globe went far beyond what was normally in their job descriptions. Health professionals faced with the uncertainties…
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National Health Insurance … what are alternatives?
I have in recent posts referred to my concerns related to the National Health Insurance (NHI) draft bill and it is only reasonable to ask, “So if you are concerned what alternatives would you recommend or consider? It is easy to criticise but if it is accepted that the current status quo for the majority of South Africans is unacceptable, rather than carping on the sidelines offer alternatives!” So much has been written in the last few years on this topic that I am hesitant that I can add anything of value to the debate but for what is worth here are my views! Since 1994 the divide between those…