South Africans have until 6 June to submit comments on the proposed regulations for the governance of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Fund. The NHI Act, signed into law in May of 2024, established the NHI Fund as the vehicle through which universal health coverage is to be achieved in the country. The Fund’s functions include purchasing health services on behalf of NHI users, setting rates for these services, and ensuring that service providers have the necessary registration or accreditation.
The draft regulations on the NHI Fund’s governance outline the structures and individuals responsible for managing and overseeing the Fund’s operations to ensure accountability, transparency, efficiency, and integrity.
The Minister of Health plays a crucial role in overseeing the overall policy and legislative framework of the NHI Fund but will not be responsible for operational control. The minister will appoint an ad hoc advisory panel based on members’ expertise and experience in relevant fields to provide independent expert advice to guide the Fund’s decision-making.
The Board of the NHI Fund will be established after the Minister of Health submits recommended candidates to Cabinet for approval. The board is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, financial management, and overall performance of the Fund. The CEO of the NHI Fund will be appointed by the Board through a merit-based selection process and will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Fund.
Dr. Nicholas Crisp, deputy director-general for NHI in the Department of Health, explains that the Board will be legally responsible for managing and overseeing the financial affairs of the Fund as required in the Public Finance Management Act. The NHI Act provides for 11 members appointed with a technical skills mix.
The public is encouraged to submit written representations and comments by 6 June. Submissions can be made through an online public comment survey on the Department of Health’s website or by post or hand delivery to the Department of National Health in Pretoria. Submissions can also be emailed to regcomments@health.gov.za.
It is essential for South Africans to participate in this process to ensure that the governance of the NHI Fund reflects the needs and priorities of the population. Your input can help shape the future of healthcare in the country. The Benefits of Meditation for Mental Health
Meditation has been practiced for centuries as a way to calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. In recent years, there has been a growing body of research that supports the benefits of meditation for mental health. From reducing anxiety and depression to improving focus and concentration, meditation can have a profound impact on our mental health.
One of the key benefits of meditation is its ability to reduce stress. In today’s fast-paced world, stress is a common problem that can lead to a host of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. By practicing meditation regularly, individuals can learn to quiet the mind and focus on the present moment, which can help reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
In addition to reducing stress, meditation has also been shown to improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. Studies have found that meditation can help individuals manage their emotions more effectively, leading to a decrease in feelings of anxiety and depression. By practicing mindfulness and being present in the moment, individuals can learn to observe their thoughts without judgment, which can help them break free from negative thought patterns and improve their overall mental well-being.
Furthermore, meditation can also improve focus and concentration. In today’s digital age, we are constantly bombarded with distractions that can make it difficult to focus on the task at hand. By practicing meditation, individuals can strengthen their ability to concentrate and focus on the present moment, which can improve productivity and performance in various areas of their lives.
Overall, the benefits of meditation for mental health are numerous. By reducing stress, improving symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhancing focus and concentration, meditation can have a positive impact on our overall mental well-being. Whether you are new to meditation or have been practicing for years, incorporating this ancient practice into your daily routine can help improve your mental health and overall quality of life.
