Local Government Minister Ketlhalefile Motshegwa reaffirmed the commitment of the government to transform healthcare by transferring of control of primary health services from the Ministry of Health to the local authorities by the government to revolutionizing the healthcare delivery system.
It was added that systems concerning the district health team, public clinic, home-based care, and community health programs would now be under the authority of the Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs.
While acknowledging the complexity of this transition, Motshegwa praised the collaboration that has taken place between technical teams to ensure the effective sharing of information and coordination.
He underscored that public consultation was very important, as deconcentrated decision-making will lead to faster service delivery supported by enhanced community participation. He assured that this transition will come with great benefits due to the fact that healthcare services will then be tailored to the needs of individual districts.
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These transitions, as outlined under National Development Plan 12(NDP 12), are argued by Motshegwa to be in line with the national health aspiration. He reiterated government commitments of making sure that all, no matter where they are, deserve access to quality healthcare in the provision of diagnoses, treatment, or medication.
Motshegwa reiterated that this had been a consultative process with employees who had been guided through the change. He emphasized that the two Ministries will continue to work together under the one-government approach in delivering services in an efficient and accessible manner.
Minister of Health Dr. Stephen Modise endorsed the transition, calling it a watershed moment on improving the service delivery. He commended the technical teams from both Ministries for their efforts and noted luck of open communication with the public and other key stakeholders is vital for a successful transition.
