NHI regulations face opposition from Western Cape Government

THE Western Cape Cabinet has reaffirmed its opposition to the draft regulations of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Act, warning that the proposed governance arrangements threaten to destabilise the provincial health system.

- WENDY DONDOLO

"The provisions of the act, in its current form, undermine the aim of universal healthcare, particularly in the Western Cape," said Premier Alan Winde.

The Cabinet maintains that the regulations are premature, invalid, and would have a "significant and detrimental impact on all provinces and service delivery."

The province's objections mirror long-standing concerns raised during public participation, which the national Department of Health has allegedly failed to address.

In contrast to its resistance on the NHI front, the provincial government is moving forward with key innovations in social services.

Cabinet approved the expansion of the Social Work Integrated Management System (SWIMS) application across government departments.

Launched in April 2024 and already used by over 1000 social workers, the SWIMS app digitises social service case files and significantly reduces paperwork.