Page 31 - Bophelo - Edition Two | March 2025

Trust and to find employment within the public health system. Without A Test of Commitment and Transparency

sufficient funding to fill these essential positions, the burden
on existing healthcare workers increases, leading to longer For the NHI to gain public trust, it is crucial that funding
wait times and diminished quality of care. is allocated transparently and effectively. Citizens need to
Transparency: Filling these posts is essential for public confidence in understand how funds are being utilised, particularly in
areas such as health-technology assessments and facility
the NHI. When communities see their healthcare facilities
upgrades. Ensuring that resources are used wisely will
staffed with qualified professionals, they are more
likely to believe that the NHI can meet their healthcare help cultivate confidence in the NHI as a viable solution
for improving health outcomes.
How Budget Investments Can needs effectively. On the other hand, if staffing issues
persist, public trust will erode, undermining the NHI’s
objectives. The government’s commitment to raising excise taxes
on alcohol and tobacco products can also contribute
Strengthen the NHI in SA to funding for health initiatives. However, these taxes
Foundations of Trust must be substantial enough to discourage consumption
and generate meaningful revenue. Failing to increase
Budget allocations that support vital programmes like these taxes in line with health recommendations could
school nutrition and early childhood development are undermine efforts to improve public health.
also crucial for building trust in the healthcare system.
Proper nutrition is foundational for children’s health An Integrated Approach to Trust
and development, and adequate funding for nutrition
programmes can significantly impact public health The relationship between climate change and health
outcomes.
highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to
budget allocations. By investing in strategies that mitigate
However, if subsidies for these programmes are
insufficient, vulnerable children may miss out on essential climate risks and enhance healthcare infrastructure,
the government can address both immediate health
nutrition, which can lead to long-term health issues challenges and long-term environmental sustainability.
and diminished trust in government efforts to improve
health. Investing adequately in these initiatives not only
supports children’s physical and cognitive growth but Demonstrating a commitment to environmental health
will not only improve public health outcomes but also
also demonstrates the government’s commitment to foster trust in the government’s holistic approach to
social determinants of health.
wellbeing. Initiatives to reduce air pollution, for example,
can lead to better respiratory health, creating clear co-
Ensuring Accountability benefits for both health and the environment.

In the quest for universal healthcare in South Africa, the values. Sufficient financial resources are necessary to Child grants play a crucial role in alleviating poverty and The Path to Trust and Health Equity
implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) address immediate healthcare needs, enhance service supporting families, but their value often fails to keep
has emerged as a critical initiative. As the nation grapples delivery, and ultimately lay a foundation of trust for the pace with inflation. Many households rely on these grants As South Africa moves forward with the NHI, the
with significant health disparities and challenges, NHI. When the public sees tangible investments in health, to meet basic needs, and insufficient increases can lead importance of budget allocations cannot be overstated.
understanding the importance of budget allocations such as increased funding for health worker salaries and to rising food insecurity. If the government can link child- Adequate funding is essential for addressing workforce
becomes paramount in building public trust in the infrastructure improvements, their confidence in the support grants to objective measures of need, it will shortages, enhancing nutrition programmes, and ensuring
NHI. These financial commitments not only reflect the system grows. Conversely, inadequate funding can lead enhance accountability and public confidence in social the efficacy of child grants. By prioritising these areas
government’s dedication to improving health outcomes to scepticism and resistance to initiatives designed to safety nets. and ensuring transparency in funding decisions, the
but also play a crucial role in fostering confidence among enhance healthcare access for all. government can build public confidence in the NHI.
citizens regarding the efficacy of the health system. Furthermore, extending social-relief measures beyond
immediate crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, can Ultimately, cultivating trust in the NHI requires meaningful
A Trust-Building Measure
The Vital Importance of Health Budget strengthen the government’s credibility. By supporting engagement with citizens, demonstrating that their health
vulnerable populations, particularly women caregivers, and well-being are at the forefront of government priorities.
Allocations A critical area where budget allocations can make a
significant impact is in addressing workforce shortages. the government can demonstrate a commitment to With the right financial commitments, the NHI has the
The allocation of funds to health is not merely a line item South Africa faces a pressing need for qualified healthcare inclusive recovery that aligns with the goals of the NHI. potential to transform healthcare in South Africa, leading to
improved health equity and outcomes for all citizens.
in the national budget; it is a statement of priorities and professionals, yet many newly graduated doctors struggle

28 THE SOUTH AFRICAN MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL THE COMMUNITY ISSUE 29