President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to sign the National Health Insurance Bill (NHI) into law on Wednesday.
This according to a statement issued by the Presidency on Monday evening.
Speaking during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in February, Ramaphosa said the State was working tirelessly to improve healthcare quality and access equality, despite the country’s health system significantly impacting people’s lives.
The NHI Bill, passed by the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) last year, will provide free healthcare at the point of care for all South Africans, whether in public or private health facilities.
The Bill currently only requires President Ramaphosa’s signature for enactment.
Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, announced that the NHI will be implemented in two remaining phases from 2024 to 2026, while between 2026 and 2028 government will focus on establishing the Board and CEO and several key committees of the NHI Fund.
“We are confident that the innovative funding of infrastructure as stated by the President will also contribute to health facilities,” said Phaahla
The signing ceremony will take place at the Union Buildings, Pretoria, at 14h00.