Business Unity South Africa (Busa) on Wednesday said it is encouraged by government's “openness” to engage on its concerns around the controversial National Health Insurance (NHI) Act, following a meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Last month, the Presidential Health Compact was signed, to much criticism.

Busa and the South African Health Professionals Collaboration, including the South African Medical Association, on principle refused to sign the Compact, which it said used the “destructive” NHI Act as its basis.

Busa has since called for urgent engagement with government on the NHI, saying this will ensure healthcare reform and universal health coverage without negative impacts.

Tuesday’s meeting included Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi and Deputy Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla, as well as senior officials of the department.

Busa said it would prepare a proposal detailing solutions to address its concerns. 

“Busa’s primary objective is to render the NHI Act workable, affordable, and implementable, while advancing universal health coverage and ensuring an equitable healthcare system for all,” it explained.

Busa pointed out that business, healthcare providers and other stakeholders have consistently supported the goal of universal health coverage but expressed concerns about the NHI Act's potential impact on healthcare, taxpayers, the economy, and investor confidence.

Magwenya said business and government expressed a shared commitment to the underlying objectives of the NHI - to achieve universal health coverage for all South Africans and address inequality in the health system.

Busa and government both expressed commitment to engaging with all stakeholders on healthcare reform.