Move to 'privatise' healthcare slammed

Johannesburg - Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi has vowed to fight for National Health Insurance in the face of possible privatisation of the healthcare system.

Vavi cautioned on Friday that even though the government had so far defended the logic of national health insurance, in
prioritising public-private partnerships, it could give in to "capitalist pressures" and privatise.

However, the Congress of SA Trade Unions and communities would continue campaigning for equal access to state-driven health care
for all South Africans, he said.

"Health, like education, unemployment, lack of housing and income inequalities, remains a faultline inherited from the
apartheid state," said Vavi.

"In all these areas it is imperative that civil society gives a lead and begins the process of transformation from below."

He said a key factor in avoiding poverty and indigence was by protecting individuals from "catastrophic" health expenditure.

The country's health care system was in crisis and improving its funding would ensure that health resources were located where they
were most needed. 

"These resources will include attracting health professionals back to the public health sector and ensuring that the medicines
and other essential supplies are made available and managed efficiently."

Vavi said an important part of the transformation of the health care system would be the overhaul of its governance structure.

- Sapa