DA welcomes the withdrawal of Certificate of Need

29 July 2014

The DA welcomes a reported decision by the Minister of Health, Aaron Motsoaledi, to do away with the Certificate of Need.

In sections 36 to 40 of the National Health Act of 2003, promulgated in May, doctors would require a ‘Certificate of Need' for establishing, constructing, modifying or acquiring a health establishment/agency.

The DA opposes this piece of legislation as it hinders doctors and medical personnel from providing greater access to healthcare in South Africa by burdening them with more red tape. A ‘Certificate of Need' would result in a step backward in the supply of healthcare to all citizens.

When I met with Minister Motsoaledi a month ago, I raised the issue and pressed him to reconsider the matter and bring it back to the Parliamentary Committee for discussion. We are glad that the Minister heeded our calls and intends to have the proclamation withdrawn.  

We would rather government look at ways to incentivise medical professionals to establish clinics and related services in under-serviced areas, instead of adding more red tape.  

We are glad that Minister Motsoaledi has reconsidered this piece of legislation as a step in the right direction towards greater access to healthcare for all.

Statement issued by Dr Wilmot James MP, DA Shadow Minister of Health, July 29 2014

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