National Health Insurance in South Africa: Implications for Equity

Abstract

This project examines the African National Congress’ most recent proposal for national health insurance in South Africa. By analyzing its ability to build upon the successes and avoid the pitfalls of past policies, this project evaluates the current proposal’s potential to increase equity in access to health care services. Analysis of the current proposal reveals learning from previous policies, and despite its failure to address certain pitfalls, this policy is likely to increase equity in South Africa if implemented as described in the ANC’s September 2010 discussion document. However, implementation as planned is unlikely given the brevity of the timeline, insufficient data to inform policy formulation, and the lack of a concrete policy. In order to redress inequity in its health system, the South African government should continue to pursue a national health insurance plan based on the principles of universal coverage, social solidarity, and the right to healthcare, but must slow the implementation process to allow for sufficient data collection, capacity building, and the development of fully-informed, concrete policies.