Somizi Mhlongo, the famous Idols SA judge and TV personality, has been facing life-threatening challenges for over a decade. A few years back he was diagnosed with a terminal disease, which doctors believed would take his life within six months and is incurable.

However, by maintaining a positive mindset and not revealing the specific illness, Somizi defied the odds, and God had “other plans” for him more than six years ago. Despite the difficulties, he continues to live his life to the fullest.

Adding to the family’s health struggles, Somizi’s daughter, actress Bahumi Madisakwane, revealed her battle with lymphoedema, a condition that causes swelling in an arm or leg due to a blockage in the lymphatic system. Despite facing this incurable disease, Bahumi remains confident and embraces herself fully. She posted a picture on Instagram showing the size difference in her legs, prompting discussions among fans about the condition.

Lymphoedema, while incurable, can be managed with the right treatment. Bahumi’s openness about her condition has resonated with many, as it takes time for some individuals to accept and embrace their own medical challenges. Both Somizi and Bahumi’s experiences serve as powerful reminders of the strength and resilience needed to overcome health obstacles.

The end of private healthcare and medical aids in South Africa – government responds to biggest NHI worries

The South African Department of Health has responded to frequently raised concerns regarding the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme, assuring citizens that it will be affordable and won’t eliminate the private healthcare sector.

The NHI Bill has recently been passed by the National Assembly, paving the way for new healthcare regulations to become law. However, there are legal and constitutional concerns, and critics have raised questions about funding and the role of private healthcare in the system.

Affordability and Preservation of Private Healthcare
The NHI aims to provide universal access to healthcare in South Africa, making the state the sole purchaser of healthcare services. The scheme promises that all citizens will be able to access healthcare at no cost from their chosen provider.

Contrary to fears of destroying private healthcare, the Department assures that private healthcare providers, including doctors and hospitals, will continue to operate under the NHI. However, their services will be limited and regulated to reduce costs.

Funding and Role of Medical Aid Schemes
The state argues that more money is currently spent on 14% of the population through private healthcare than on the majority of people through public services. The NHI aims to pool funds from both private and public healthcare to create a single risk pool for cross-subsidization.

The NHI will be funded through a mandatory pre-payment system, including taxes collected by SARS and allocated to the NHI Fund by Parliament. Medical aid schemes will still exist but will have limited services since the NHI will provide comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Phased Implementation and Financial Impact
The NHI will be implemented in phases over several years. The Department acknowledges that the financial impact of the NHI taxation system should not burden households more than the current system.

As households reduce spending on private healthcare and medical aid, those funds will contribute to the NHI Fund. The NHI will redistribute money from various sources, including provincial health systems, tax rebates, levies, and conditional grants, consolidating them into a single fund for more equitable distribution.

In conclusion, the South African government is committed to implementing the NHI scheme, addressing concerns raised by stakeholders, and ensuring that private healthcare continues to play a role in the new healthcare system. The NHI is intended to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage to all citizens, with funding primarily sourced from taxes and other pre-payment systems.