News | Public Health Affairs
Feedback from the Department of Health’s briefing to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee
Time to read: 01:52
Time to listen: 03:27
Published on MedED: 27October 2024
Type of article: News
MedED Catalogue Reference: MNG0055
Category: News
Category Cross-reference: Public Health
Keywords: Department of Health, NHI, HIV,
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Type of article: News
MedED Catalogue Reference: MNG0055
Category: News
Category Cross-reference: Public Health
Keywords: Department of Health, NHI, HIV,
Top
27 October 13:45
At the recent Portfolio Committee on Health (17 October 2024) , the Department of Health provided feedback on various issues as follows:
NHI Programme and Pilot Sites
The department reported on the development of a model for contracting primary healthcare services under the National Health Insurance (NHI) programme, although testing at nine pilot sites has been delayed.
Impact of Foreign Nationals on Health Services
Concerns were also raised about the impact of foreign nationals on health services, particularly in provinces like the North West, prompting a call for collaborative solutions across government departments.
Achievements in Disease Management
The department exceeded targets for HIV self-screening and community outreach but faced challenges in TB treatment success rates. While the district health system policy framework remains under consultation, the department highlighted its commitment to improving service delivery.
Financial Performance and Audit Outcomes
The department achieved an unqualified audit opinion for the 2023/24 financial year, paying 90% of invoices within 30 days. Financial performance showed that it spent 99.59% of its R58.5 billion budget, with the NHI programme receiving the lowest allocation.
Concerns Over TB Treatment and Irregular Expenditure
Concerns were raised regarding the department's TB treatment success and irregular expenditure. The department outlined interventions to improve TB outcomes, including mortality audits and patient tracing.
Digital Vibes Report and Consequence Management
Minister of Health, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, addressed the delayed digital vibes report, stating that it was an SIU report from the previous administration, with consequence management already implemented.
Oversight of Community Health Workers
The committee pressed for better oversight of community health workers and updates on the Alcohol Bill, which has faced delays due to economic concerns.
Employment Solutions for Community Health Workers
The committee emphasized the need for sustainable employment solutions for community health workers, crucial to primary healthcare.
G20 Presidency Preparation
Looking ahead, the department is preparing agenda items for South Africa's G20 presidency in 2024, focusing on strengthening public health institutions and enhancing local vaccine manufacturing.
The date for the next parliamentary briefing is still to be announced.
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