By The National Health Insurance (NHI) Act has sparked much debate in the country and across sectors. Business has also expressed concern should it be implemented in its current form, and has since called for the President’s audience to express their concerns.
President Mr Cyril Ramaphosa finally gave Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) his attention to listen to the concerns of business. This meeting follows a complaint by BUSA CEO Mr Cas Coovadia earlier this month, where he said despite government committing to engage with them on the NHI matter, they were still not given an opportunity to ventilate their concerns on the Act.
Coovadia said BUSA is in support of equal universal health coverage but it must be done in a manner that will not hurt the economy of the country. He said raising the concerns is not only appropriate but also responsible and necessary to ensure that whatever the decision the country makes, it is viable and sustainable.
“We have on many occasions and across every legislative forum, made constructive proposals on how the country can do this without negatively impacting our economy, healthcare systems and fiscal stability. We have also been extremely clear in our position that the NHI, as envisioned in the Act, is unaffordable, unimplementable and unconstitutional, and therefore requires urgent amendment.
We are disappointed that despite commitments by government to engage on the NHI Act, structured discussions have not yet taken place. It is only through formal, constructive engagement with the President, Minister of Health and National Treasury, focused on collaboration rather than division, that we will create a healthcare system that is equitable, effective and sustainable for generations to come. BUSA remains ready to participate in meaningful dialogue with government,” said Cas Coovadia.
Ramaphosa finally availed himself on Tuesday, 17 September 2024, to meet with the leadership of BUSA; he was accompanied by the Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, his Deputy Mr Joseph Phaahla and senior officials of the department.
According to the Spokesperson to the President Mr Vincent Magwenya, the meeting was constructive and forward-looking. Business and government expressed a shared commitment to the underlying objectives of the NHI, namely to achieve universal health coverage for all South Africans and address inequality in the health system.
“The President has requested BUSA to put forward specific proposals on the remaining issues of concern as a basis for further engagement. Government remains committed to engaging with all stakeholders in good faith on the process of healthcare reform, and to finding workable solutions that will advance quality and affordable healthcare for all,” said Magwenya.
