R296bn more needed to finance NHI – SRI
The Solidarity Research Institute says the government will need to find an additional R296 billion to finance the National Health Insurance.
The NHI Bill was passed by the National Assembly in June, with the government arguing it will provide equitable and quality healthcare to all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic backgrounds.
But the institute's Theuns du Buisson says their research indicates the government does not have the money to implement the NHI.
READ: Healthcare professionals believe NHI ‘step in right direction’
Du Buisson says even though the bill has been given the thumbs up by lawmakers, the government is yet to explain how the system would work in practice.
He says a failing NHI would put strain on those earning above-average salaries, and those who are on minimum wage.
"For the average South African, we would have to pay for a lot more tax and the payroll tax, as being suggested by government will have the effect that many people who currently aren't paying income tax would be paying a cost of roughly 14 percent which is unsustainable and immoral."
