SA health minister calls for action on universal health coverage

DISCUSSIONS around universal health coverage (UHC) and issues of non-communicable diseases are expected to be discussed at the second G20 Health Working Group meeting held in KwaZulu-Natal this week.

- THOBEKA NGEMA [e-mail]

Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi delivered the keynote address at the opening session. Deputy Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla, KZN Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli and KZN Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane were also present.

In his address, Motsoaledi said the government's focus is to advance global health equity and resilience in a world facing unprecedented challenges through universal health coverage.

He said the 2023 UN High-Level Meeting on UHC reinforced the urgency of addressing health inequities and ensuring financial protection, especially in the context of global crises.

"However, the reality on the ground is deeply concerning," Motsoaledi said.

"The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a significant regression in universal health coverage indices."

Motsoaledi said a strong primary healthcare system is the cornerstone of universal health coverage.