News Desk | NHI

Board of Healthcare Funders Comments on imminent signing of NHI

14 May 2024,  16:00
Contributor: Linda Ravenhill

The Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF) has moved to reassure members of medical aid schemes amidst the impending enactment of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill. Despite the bill's controversial nature, BHF has pledged to maintain continuity for scheme members. They have voiced strong opposition to Section 33 of the bill, which they argue is both unconstitutional and unlawful. This section is perceived as diminishing the role of medical schemes, prompting BHF to announce plans for legal action against it.

President Cyril Ramaphosa's announcement of the bill's impending signing on Wednesday marks a significant step towards achieving universal health coverage. However, BHF remains critical of the bill's current form, pointing out notable gaps and potential repercussions for medical scheme members. They assert that the bill, as it stands, may not effectively achieve its intended goals, especially regarding the inclusion and protection of medical scheme beneficiaries.

In an interview with TimesLIVE, BHF spokesperson Nokuzola Mtshiya emphasized the organization's commitment to safeguarding the interests of medical aid scheme members. While acknowledging the necessity of the NHI Bill for South Africa's healthcare landscape, BHF expresses disappointment over the perceived shortcomings and missed opportunities to strengthen its provisions.

Dr Katlego Mothudi, representing BHF, highlights the challenges posed by Section 33, which restricts medical schemes to offering complementary coverage once the NHI is fully implemented. BHF views medical schemes as a national asset and argues that this section undermines their role in the healthcare ecosystem.

Section 33's potential implications for the sustainability of medical schemes are profound. BHF warns of an "unsustainable" environment if members mass-exodus from such schemes.

In response to these concerns, BHF is prepared to take legal action to challenge Section 33, aiming to ensure the longevity and viability of the medical scheme industry. They assert that their primary focus remains on protecting the interests of medical aid scheme beneficiaries, reassuring them that it will be "business as usual" despite the impending changes brought by the NHI Bill.

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