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Hospital Association Becomes the Latest to Mount Legal Challenge to the NHI
Time to read: 01:00
Published: 3 March 2025
The Hospital Association of South Africa (HASA) has become the latest to launch a legal challenge against the National Health Insurance (NHI), citing constitutional and financial concerns.
HASA, representing major private healthcare providers, argues that the government failed to engage stakeholders on critical aspects of the Act. The case, submitted to the Gauteng High Court in January, asserts that the NHI violates Section 27 of the Constitution, which guarantees access to healthcare services for all South Africans.
A key concern raised by HASA is the lack of a recent financial feasibility study, leaving questions about the affordability and sustainability of the proposed system. The association warns that without clear funding mechanisms, the NHI could severely disrupt healthcare access and place an unmanageable burden on the system.
While HASA has long advocated for dialogue, it states that the government’s unwillingness to engage left it no choice but to proceed with legal action.
"HASA believes that National Health Insurance is neither sustainable nor affordable and that dialogue and collaboration between all stakeholders are critical to finding and developing solutions to achieve universal health coverage."
The Universal Healthcare Access Coalition (UHAC), a group of 28 healthcare organisations, has proposed alternative reforms it deems more viable. You can read more on that story here
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s administration remains committed to the NHI, despite widespread concerns over its sustainability and the uncertain future of private medical schemes.
While litigation unfolds, HASA continues to push for a collaborative approach to achieving universal healthcare.
Access more in our Special NHI Coverage
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