Ramaphosa’s health promises face Budget test

Medical scheme warns that funding decisions will decide if Ramaphosa’s hospital and prevention commitments translate into change. Bestmed Medical Scheme said Wednesday’s National Budget must back government’s health commitments with meaningful funding, warning that pressure on the healthcare system continues to intensify. The scheme’s comments follow health-related pledges made by President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier this month during his State of the Nation Address, during which he outlined plans for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure and prevention.

Ramaphosa said governmentwould undertake “substantial investment in health infrastructure, prioritising the construction and revitalisation of academic hospitals”. The president also highlighted expanded prevention efforts, including the rollout of Lenacapavir for HIV prevention and campaigns to ensure every girl aged nine to 15 receives the Human Papillomavirus vaccine. Bestmed CEO and principal officer Leo Dlamini said these priorities were encouraging, particularly given longstanding challenges in the public health sector.

“Thecommitment to upgrading hospitals, including academic institutions, and investing in health personnel is a welcome step,” said Dlamini. Dlamini added that “better facilities mean more space for doctors, improved working conditions and a health system equipped to deliver quality care to all South Africans.” Prevention programmes were equally important as South Africa battles rising healthcare costs and a growing burden of disease, said Dlamini. “Preventative care is not just a health imperative – it is an economic one,” said Dlamini.