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National Health Amendment Bill 2008

26 April 2008 South African Medical Association

Proposed amendments to the National Health Act were published on 18 April 2008, which the SA Medical Association (SAMA) strongly opposes.

The draft Bill creates the position of a ministerial appointed Facilitator for health pricing, who will have the responsibility for resolving pricing disputes and facilitating the negotiation process regarding health pricing. SAMA strongly advocates for a tariff-setting framework that is pre-negotiated and agreed upon by all relevant role players. A watchdog on health pricing is not required, but a proper structure to facilitate pricing, based on appropriate information.

The draft Bill further provides for the appointment of Inspectors by the Director-General of Health, having the right to enter any practice or institution, with access to documentation, information captured on computers, as well as the right to question personnel. SAMA strongly objects to this violation of rights which is in direct conflict with the Constitution.

In light of current discussions with the Ministry of Health regarding the NHRPL, SAMA is shocked at the Minister’s attempt to circumvent the current participatory process regarding the determination of prices in the health industry.

SAMA vehemently opposes this draft Bill, and will draft a formal submission to the Department of Health expanding upon its objection within the next two weeks.

SAMA is of the opinion that wrong processes were embarked upon, and that a participatory environment of agreeing on tariffs should be created.

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