The National Health Council recently announced the allocation of R1.78 billion for the recruitment of 1,200 doctors, 200 nurses, and 259 additional healthcare professionals. This decision comes after months of discussions and concerns raised by various stakeholders in the healthcare sector.
During a meeting on Thursday, the National Health Council, which includes Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi and provincial Health MECs, provided updates on several health-related issues. These updates included the recruitment of health professionals, the procurement of medical equipment, and the establishment of new ministerial advisory committees.
Earlier this year, the South African Medical Association (SAMA) expressed concerns about 1,800 unemployed junior doctors. Health Minister Motsoaledi acknowledged the growing demand for employment opportunities for healthcare professionals and community service posts over the past few years.
Budgetary constraints have been a major challenge in addressing these concerns, with over a decade of austerity measures impacting the health sector. However, following the Finance Minister’s budget speech last month, the National Health Council approved the advertisement of posts for healthcare professionals.
Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana highlighted the loss of nearly 9,000 healthcare workers in the health system last year. To address this, an additional R28.9 billion has been allocated to retain and replace healthcare workers in hospitals and clinics. Health spending is projected to increase from R277 billion in the 2024/25 financial year to R329 billion by 2027/28.
Minister Motsoaledi emphasized the need to review outdated health policies that have not delivered meaningful benefits and have hindered the public sector’s ability to provide quality healthcare services. The National Health Council has resolved to initiate a comprehensive review of existing health policies to address these challenges.
In terms of procurement, Minister Motsoaledi acknowledged the persistent shortage of basic items in public health facilities that could improve patient experience. The council has identified the need for 1.4 million articles, including hospital beds, mattresses, bed sheets, and pillows, to be procured and delivered to hospitals across the country.
The goal is to bridge the gap between public and private healthcare facilities, not just in clinical care but also in non-clinical aspects such as cleanliness, meals, linen, furniture, and overall comfort for patients. These efforts aim to improve the overall quality of healthcare services provided in public health facilities.
