GEMS, SA’s largest medical scheme for public servants, is expected to reduce patient volumes at private hospitals, particularly among members of the scheme’s popular Tanzanite One option. This has lowered growth expectations of private hospital group Netcare for the year to September 30, 2026. Netcare CEO Richard Friedland also warned that the US-Iran war could create additional pressure for the business due to the effect of higher fuel prices. Netcare expects to spend an extra R10m on fuel over the next six months. – Business Day (26 May 2026)
SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and the SA Pharmacy Council (SAPC)issued a joint statement instructing pharmaceutical company iDexis to recall its compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide injections. – Business Day (26 May 2026)
Medical schemes are facing a worrying trend of younger contributors declining membership. – Business Day (20 May 2026)
On 18 May the Constitutional Court (ConCourt) ruled that Sections 36 to 40 (including the Certificate of Need) of the NHI Act is unconstitutional and failed to provide a rational and lawful mechanism for improving access to healthcare.