A report by medical aid provider Profmed reveals that while healthcare professionals acknowledge the high cost of private healthcare in South Africa, the vast majority fear that the newly implemented National Health Insurance (NHI) will worsen, rather than improve, the quality of healthcare delivery.
The 2025 State of Health Report, based on responses from approximately 1 800 medical professionals, found that 70% of participants are satisfied with the general standard of healthcare – largely due to private sector performance – but 75% have no confidence that the NHI will enhance the system.
High cost of medical aid schemes
Profmed CEO Craig Comrie said the high cost of medical aid schemes was highlighted as a major concern, with suggestions that making medical aid mandatory for all formally employed South Africans could reduce costs by up to 30%.
However, respondents were also clear that price regulation and broader access must be accompanied by better governance and public sector improvements.
Further findings revealed that 60% of respondents had no trust in the public healthcare system, citing understaffing, poor infrastructure, and a lack of accountability.
Proceeding with NHI implementation
Despite the concerns, Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi reaffirmed during his budget vote last week that the government is proceeding with NHI implementation.
He said significant funds are being allocated to upgrade public health infrastructure to meet NHI standards.
While the government insists that NHI will ensure universal, equitable healthcare access, many healthcare professionals believe that meaningful reform must be coupled with better oversight, financial transparency, and public-private cooperation to be effective.
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