The Western Cape legislature has rejected the NHI Bill after a lengthy public participation process where residents expressed financial and social concerns.

The provincial legislature's health committee, dominated by the DA who hold a majority in the province, voted against the bill, emphasizing the potential dire consequences for the healthcare sector and the broader economy.

Committee chairperson Gerrit Pretorius stated that while universal health coverage is a noble goal, the bill's economic repercussions, coupled with existing crises such as debt, a stagnant economy, and an energy crisis, make its passage untenable.

In particular, the Bill will make it necessary to register with a central government bureau to receive prior approval for any medical treatment, and removes the right for citizens to choose their own healthcare providers.

ANC MPL Rachel Windvoegel maintained the ANC's support for the bill during the committee meeting.

The NCOP Select Committee on Health and Social Services adopted the bill without amendments, prompting concerns from business groups and healthcare professionals.

The SA Health Professionals Collaboration (SAHPC), representing over 25,000 healthcare workers, expressed disappointment over the lack of amendments and highlighted concerns about the bill's potential unintended consequences.

SAHPC spokesperson Simon Strachan emphasized the need for urgent healthcare reforms but expressed worries about the hasty progression of the NHI Bill without considering diverse perspectives and expert insights.

The Western Cape government, previously vocal about its stance, emphasized the distinction between NHI as a money bill and the need for true universal health coverage.

The rejection adds to the ongoing debate over the NHI Bill's viability and potential impact on South Africa's healthcare system.

This will have no effect, since provinces have extremely limited powers over national legislation, and most other delegates in the upper house are from the ANC.

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