The National Assembly of South Africa has passed a controversial bill, marking a significant milestone in
introducing universal health coverage in the country.
Considering its twelve-year journey through the legislative process, Joe Phaahla, South Africa’s health minister, praised the bill’s approval as a momentous achievement.
Opponents express concerns that implementing the new legislation could collapse an already strained public health system.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), the main opposition party, criticized the decision, highlighting that the existing burdened public health system would need to accommodate an additional nine million South Africans, out of the total population of 60 million, who currently possess medical insurance.
In the foremost industrial power of Africa, public hospitals frequently experience issues such as overcrowding, limited resources, and understaffing.
As a result, those with more resources often seek medical care in the private sector.
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Source: Omanghana.com