Kagiso residents support the NHI Bill
At a public hearing held at Chief Mogale Hall, residents call for the implementation of the proposed National Health Insurance Bill.
During a public hearing held at Chief Mogale Hall, residents of Mogale City expressed their desire to have equal access to healthcare and called for the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill.
The NHI aims to achieve universal access to quality healthcare services in South Africa in accordance with section 27 of the Constitution, which acknowledges everyone’s right to access to healthcare services.
Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, who is the chairperson of the Health Committee, explained the Bill to attendees on Saturday, 22 February. He outlined that the Bill applies to every South African who has an identity document, and that the Bill is set to achieve sustainable and affordable access to healthcare for everyone.
“As South Africans we do not have equal access to healthcare. If your illness needs more resources, not all of us will be able to get those resources. This Bill seeks to create a platform where everyone will be able to get the quality healthcare they need at any given time,” said Dhlomo.
The residents told the committee why they supported the Bill and needed it to be implemented speedily. A 69-year-old man from the community said his main concern was that the Bill might be implemented too late for him as he would be dead by then, given the worsening condition of his kidneys.
“I am experiencing serious challenges with my kidneys. I was unable to go to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital because I lacked taxi fare. I have been to the closest clinic to request to be treated, but I was unsuccessful. I urge the committee to put NHI to practice as my life depends on it,” he said.
The residents told the committee that they were 100 per cent behind the Bill. Andrew Mosane said he would not have to walk long distances to get healthcare anymore.
“I am fully on board the NHI train. We want quality and equal healthcare, we will no longer avoid private sectors because we couldn’t afford them, this will help us go to any hospital around and near us,” said Mosane.
A fear of corruption, among others, was expressed by the residents. They urged the committee to be extra vigilant when it comes to issues surrounding money, as this is set to better the lives of individuals and not for personal gain.
Dr Dlhomo said by 2026, the NHI will be fully functional across South Africa.
