The United Nations Human Development Report reveals the following facts about South Africa. Although this is an older report – things are certainly not getting better.

  1. South Africa ranks the 28th most expensive in the world in terms of the share of gross domestic product spent on healthcare.
  2. SA ranks fifth most expensive among developing countries.
  3. SA spent more than 8% of GDP on healthcare in the mid-2000s
  4. Only Argentina and Brazil spend more, at around 9% of their GDP.
  5. The cost of healthcare in SA is soaring: from 5% (both household and state expenditure) in the late nineties to 8% by 2001, according to Reserve Bank data.
  6. The World Health Organisation’s overall health system performance report says SA’s healthcare system is ranked 175th of 191 countries. With no improvement in sight.
  7. Despite high expenditure, SA ranks about 120th for immunization against measles, 100th in respect of the number of doctors relative to population and 90th for the share of births attended by healthcare professionals.
  8. Among high and upper middle-income developing countries, SA comes fourth in the share of total healthcare provided by the private sector, at around 60% of total costs.

So in light of all the negativity – we as south Africans need to ensure that we have our personal financial & medical planning in order. Fortunately we are spoilt for choice when it comes to quality medical aid & hospital plans with world class service & product suppliers. However ensure that you get advice from a qualified medical planner who must guide you through the various schemes and options to identify a plan that meets your needs and suits your budget.