KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane has addressed the contentious issue of undocumented foreign nationals accessing provincial healthcare facilities, stating they are draining an already overstretched system.
Speaking at the launch of the South African Medical Association’s (SAMA) KZN branch, Simelane explained that the province budgets for 12 million people but has no way of knowing how many undocumented individuals are using services, potentially pushing the real number over 15 million. She stated this places a significant strain on resources and healthcare workers, ultimately impacting local communities.
However, Simelane was clear that the law prevents turning away sick people. “We cannot turn away people who are sick when they come to our facilities. It is something that we cannot do in terms of the Constitution,” she said.
She differentiated between public protest and illegal actions, condemning vigilante groups that block access to clinics or demand IDs from patients inside facilities. She emphasized the department’s responsibility to protect all patients.
In response, SAMA KZN chairperson Dr. Zanele Bikitsha reminded healthcare professionals of their Hippocratic Oath, which obliges them to serve all people regardless of nationality. She also noted that the financial strain is not solely caused by migrants, citing South Africans with medical aid who use public services without declaring it, preventing the system from recouping costs.
Simelane concluded by stating that the national health minister is engaging with relevant organizations and is expected to make a pronouncement on the matter soon.