7 June 2018

I would like to put on record that there has been an unfortunate and distorted misrepresentation of my assessment as the Health Ombud of the state of the Health System by certain sectors of the media following my appearance on the Tim Modise Network. This had the effect to decontextualise and disassociate my assessment and my recommendation.

My clear intention and recommendation recorded on the Tim Modise Network was for the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi to consider leading and convening a multi representative group to explore new ways for the renewal of the Health System. Unfortunately, this has been totally ignored and lost by most in the media, I hope these can be reflected in the current debate as they are on the record.

As stated in my Life Esidimeni Report: Our legislative framework requires urgent amendments as it gives concurrent powers to provinces and municipalities but when all fails, only a Minister who has limited powers is held alone to account.

Minister Motsoaledi has worked tirelessly to successfully implement the recommendations of the National Development Plan and in driving the further transformation of the Health System through the National Health Insurance.

Issued by the Health Ombud, Prof MW Makgoba

For more information contact: Ricardo Mahlakanya: Mobile. 066 473 8666, and Email. rmahlakanya@ohsc.org.za