Date: Thursday, 22 August 2024
Location: Union Buildings, Pretoria
Opening Remarks
The Acting President welcomed attendees and highlighted the enduring relevance of Virgil’s statement, “The greatest wealth is health,” emphasizing the vital role of health in national prosperity.
Commitment to Health Goals
South Africa is dedicated to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the aim of ensuring healthy lives and well-being for all. This commitment involves striving for universal health coverage and providing access to affordable medicines and vaccines.
Healthcare System Improvements
The Acting President outlined the need for a robust healthcare system to improve health outcomes, life expectancy, and the management of public health emergencies. A well-functioning system should address health needs, protect against health threats, mitigate financial impacts, provide equitable care, and enable public involvement in health decisions.
Progress Since the First Compact
The first Presidential Health Compact, signed in 2018, focused on nine pillars aimed at enhancing various aspects of the healthcare system. Progress includes:
- Creation of over 73,000 new posts through the Human Resources Training Grant.
- Training of 100 doctors and 75 advanced degree graduates via the Public Health Enhancement Fund.
- Expansion in access to medicines and medical devices.
- Advancements in technology and local manufacturing to improve healthcare delivery.
Ongoing Challenges and Initiatives
Despite progress, challenges remain, such as budget constraints and inefficiencies. Efforts are underway to improve budgeting, reduce litigation costs, and combat corruption. The role of the private sector in strengthening health systems has been crucial, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Future Directions
With the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act now law, greater collaboration between public and private sectors is essential. The implementation of the NHI will focus on streamlining standards and ensuring quality care across all facilities.
Call to Action
The Acting President urged all stakeholders to build on the successes of the first compact and address ongoing challenges. Effective implementation of health policies is a priority for the administration, and collaborative efforts are needed to ensure successful outcomes.
Conclusion
On behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Acting President signed the second Presidential Health Compact, affirming the commitment to improve South Africa’s healthcare system and ensure continued progress.
Closing
The Acting President expressed confidence in the collective ability to implement the compact and wished all partners success in their endeavors.
