28 July 2010 was a significant day for Specialists in South Africa. The High Court ruled against the Department of Health in the application by Specialists against Enforced Regulations by Government in controlling Private Health Fees.
As many are aware Specialists submitted their cost studies that are to play a role in determining a Reference Price List (RPL). This will play a major role in the introduction of National Health Insurance (NHI), which is short of 64 000 doctors to become functional. Whilst Government is trying to train and import new doctors at a frantic pace they are at the same time forcing our own doctors to emigrate in order to earn a living in countries outside South Africa. The solution is simple. Allow doctors to earn an income that cover Costs and enable a decent quality of life. I find it amazing that Government Officials, Parastatal Management and Business leaders are awarded salaries in the millions (tens of millions in some cases), but complain if doctors request a 12% increase on a low fee base which is in par with the minimum wage limit.
They will argue that what I am saying is ridiculous, but many doctors work much longer hours to that permitted under labour legislation. Costs to run their practices are high, too such an extent that some months their take home pay is zero or even negative. The question is would this be allowed by the Unions?
Government must realize that a Communist system running a Capitalist Industry cannot work. It is about time that the socialist element within Government realizing every effort to legislate laws and regulations with regard to fees or tariffs will be countered in court by whatever industry they try to control. If this is allowed to continue Engineers, Lawyers and Accountants will be next. As a solution Government should rather consult and listen to Industries and Professionals such as ourselves. We are all living in South Africa and want to make the Health Industry work in a sustainable manner.
This judgement sounds as a warning to Governments attempt at trying to enforce control on the medical problem. I hope that they will take heed of what the Judge said, “Government must consult with role players and govern responsibly”! Isn’t this a chance to start meaningful consultation with the Medical Profession getting a realistic fee structure in place that will last for years to come to alleviate arguing and bickering every year when the fees are re-negotiated.
ENT President's Blog