Top Three Health Reforms South Africa’s New Government Should Focus on

President Cyril Ramaphosa has made a bold promise to end the apartheid that still exists in healthcare as South Africans prepare to cast their votes. With the country facing a quadruple burden of disease including HIV, tuberculosis, non-communicable diseases, maternal and child health challenges, and trauma from violence and accidents, the need for healthcare reform is urgent.

Professor Bob Mash has outlined three key health reforms that he believes the incoming administration should prioritize. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also recommended four essential health reforms, emphasizing the importance of universal health coverage and integrated primary care.

One crucial area that requires immediate attention is the need for more family physicians in South Africa. Despite the establishment of a new medical specialty in family medicine in 2008, the deployment of family physicians remains limited. These specialists play a vital role in improving the quality of primary and district hospital care.

Additionally, the implementation of community-orientated primary care (COPC) is essential to address the health needs of the entire population served. By focusing on community health worker teams and adopting COPC principles, South Africa can improve healthcare delivery and ensure equity.

Lastly, the country must allocate more resources and attention to non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and mental health care. These conditions are significant contributors to morbidity and mortality in South Africa, and interventions are needed to promote lifestyle changes and better mental health.

As the country heads to the polls, the incoming government must prioritize these health reforms to enhance the quality of primary healthcare and pave the way for the proposed national health insurance. The future of healthcare in South Africa depends on these critical reforms.