Medscheme is a signatory to the Social Compact Forum launched by the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi on 8 November 2012.

The Forum is a groundbreaking initiative through which government aims to guide discussions between the public and private healthcare sectors with a view to developing solutions to the major challenges facing the industry. The Forum comprises government as well as leading private healthcare companies represented by their CEOs and senior executives.

One of the key features of Forum is the establishment of a public health enhancement fund (PHEF). The fund is expected to provide funding to support government to:

• Expand the intake of medical students;
• Support postgraduate students pursuing health-related studies;
• Build additional capacity in the management of Tuberculosis (TB), HIV and Aids; and
• Provide support to the newly established Leadership and Management Academy for Health.

This is a very positive development which is not only aligned with Medscheme’s Vision but essential for the successful transformation of our industry.