Court dismisses Solidarity's NHI application
The Department of Health has welcomed a High Court ruling which dismissed an application by Solidarity against the filling of posts under the National Health Insurance Bill.
The union argued that the NHI should be established only after the NHI Bill had been signed into law by the president.
However, the court found that the establishment of the NHI branch as part of the department`s organisational structure does not amount to the implementation of a bill.
Last week, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced that at least R1 billion will be directed to the National Health Insurance.
The department’s spokesperson, Foster Mohale, said these appointments are simply part of the department's efforts to strengthen the health system.
Mohale said the functions of the branch remain relevant for any health system in the world, public or private.
“The creation of these critical posts responsible for, amongst others, health products procurement, health care benefits and provider management, health system digital information, risk and fraud management, and user and service provider management, are part of broader health system strengthening.
“The court ruling paves the way for the department to prepare for the rollout of NHI once it is signed into law.
“The judgment simply means the department has got the right to continue with the work to strengthen the public health system of the country to respond to the health care needs and demands of the population,” added Mohale.
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