News

South Africa can’t just “move-on” from Covid-19 without absorbing valuable lessons 

A new report released today, on Universal Health Coverage Day, by Rural Health Advocacy Project reveals that the health system disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic compromised the gains made in many programmes in this sector. It also highlighted various inequities in the current structure of the health system

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Navigating Urban Upbringing, Rural Realities, and Healthcare

As Women’s Month unfolds, I find myself reflecting on the journey that has brought me from the bustling streets of the city to the tranquil landscapes of rural areas, and back to the city. The vibrant urban atmosphere that I grew up in, with its skyscrapers and neon lights, helped to establish my outlook on life. But it was my brief stay and frequent visits to rural areas that made the link between urban upbringing, healthcare, and women’s empowerment clear.

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Mental health stigma persists in rural areas 

In the quiet corners of rural communities, mental health challenges often stay hidden and are concealed by stigma. Many people, especially rural individuals lack knowledge of mental illness. The stigma surrounding mental illness makes it difficult for people to acknowledge and get help for their mental health struggles.

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Challenges and Hope: RHAP Report on Public Spending and Procurement in South African Healthcare

Today, the Rural Health Advocacy Project launches its highly anticipated report titled Procurement and Audit Outcomes in the South African Health Sector, the report not only sheds light on the critical gaps in the South African health sector’s procurement and spending. It also offers valuable insights into the factors affecting audit outcomes, the challenges associated with the NHI’s procurement, institutional arrangements and the potential for reform through the proposed Public Procurement Bill.

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NHI – Are the public procurement bill provisions enough to mitigate corruption risk? New report 

The recent passage of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill by the National Assembly. The NHI Bill, after twelve years in construction, represents a significant milestone in achieving universal healthcare coverage for all South Africans. However, concerns have been raised regarding the governance arrangements of the fund. This some critics have argued would make the fund susceptible to corruption that would undermine its stated intent.

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Early Intervention Matters: The Value of Preventative Care for Men’s Health

It’ll get better on its own’ is a common perception amongst men regarding their health2. Hence, many men are known to put off getting medical care until they are really ill, endangering their general health and well-being. This tendency can be due to a number of factors. According to the Western Cape Government, healthcare professionals are able to treat and prevent illnesses if they are detected early.

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Rural Health Crisis: Youth Day highlights the urgent need for improvement

Youth Day in South Africa highlights the significant impact young people have on shaping the country’s future. This day is aimed at remembering the past, acknowledging the present challenges faced by young people, and looking towards a brighter future.

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