“The Eastern Cape's estimated medicolegal liability fell from R38bn to just under R19bn over five years, according to former Health Department head Dr Rolene Wagner. However, analysts warn that a smaller bill does not, by itself, show that patients are safer.” – Financial Mail (1 October 2026)
National provincial contingent liabilities declined to R57.6bn in 2024/25.
However, analysts caution that lower liabilities do not necessarily indicate safer healthcare. The province is improving records, addressing surgical backlogs and establishing cerebral palsy care centres, but courts have questioned whether public facilities can guarantee lifelong care instead of lump-sum compensation.