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Teboho Matshatsha
In promotion of National Health Insurance (NHI), Gauteng Health MEC, Dr Bandile Masuku engaged with young health professionals during the NHI dialogue at Ann Latsky Nursing College on Wednesday, 20 November 2019.
Masuku explained to these professionals that the objective of NHI is to achieve universal access to quality healthcare services in the Republic of South Africa.
The comprehensive healthcare services that NHI will provide are bound by the philosophy of holistic approach to healthcare spanning from preventative strategies all the way to convalescent and palliative care.
MEC Masuku said: "The NHI discussion is about access, people must access healthcare without suffering catastrophic financial spending. At some point it is so nice when we are all healthy and happy, but as citizens we fail to have a discussion on how we can subsidize those who are less fortunate to afford healthcare. Social solidarity becomes a big issue." 
The MEC went further to highlight the benefits that NHI will bring, which include: those who do not work will no longer suffer the burdens of rising medical aid costs and out of pocket expenses for less and less coverage. Companies will benefit from healthier and longer living population as well as economic prosperity through social justice.
Dr Bonginkosi Mnguni from Junior Doctors Association of South Africa (JUDASA) said: "Personally I would love the NHI to work and every one to support it from the stakeholders to the main beneficiaries. If we can understand the benefits that comes with it and we all put an effort to make it work this could be a turning point to the healthcare system."
An excited nurse from Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA), Simphiwe Ndlovu said: "NHI defines innovation.  People should look at this as a stepping stone to greatness, economically and also improving the lives of the people. It is rare to find a project that benefits all stakeholders, I have confidence towards our MEC that he will bring change, hence am here to pledge."