The availability of technology and lack of internet access in many areas, along with the ongoing rolling blackouts, is preventing more widespread use of digital healthcare capabilities.
Increasing food, transport and general living costs are affecting every South African. Rising inflation means that prices continue to go up, and many are battling to keep up. Early indications are that 2023 will bring more of the same.
Healthcare is a fundamental right for all. But for us to create and implement a national health system to enable this, we must be mindful of the current constraints and ensure that we move forward in a positive manner.
While we roll out improved access and quality health care to the unemployed or informal sectors, the private sector can assist by ensuring the formally employed are covered by current private healthcare solutions, says Damian McHugh.
In an attempt to help members to address the increased cost-of-living crisis, some medical schemes with healthy reserves have opted to implement deferred increases.