NHI still 'viable and on track' despite Constitutional Court setback, says Motsoaledi

Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi says that South Africa’s National Health Insurance (NHI) programme will continue

Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi says that South Africa’s National Health Insurance (NHI) programme will continue despite a recent Constitutional Court ruling that struck down key provisions of the National Health Act’s Certificate of Need system.

The Constitutional Court has ruled that the “Certificate of Need” (CON) provisions in the Health Care Act - which control where doctors work - are unconstitutional. These provisions require doctors to obtain a CON before they can work at a specific location.

In a written reply to questions from ActionSA MP Dr Tebogo Kgosietsile Letlape, Motsoaledi said the judgment does not stop or invalidate the NHI programme.

He said the government is studying the ruling and will ensure that future health policies comply with the Constitution, while maintaining its goal of universal health coverage.