Farewell message from Dr Sipho Kabane
Dear Colleagues and Stakeholders,
As I prepare to bid farewell to my role as the Registrar and Chief Executive of the Council for Medical Schemes, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and reflection. Since my appointment in February 2019, it has been an honour to lead this esteemed organisation and work alongside such dedicated professionals committed to safeguarding the interests of medical scheme members in South Africa.
One of the milestones during my tenure was hosting the first Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA) Summit. This summit was a pivotal moment in our collective efforts to address the rampant issues of fraud, waste, and abuse within the medical schemes industry. Bringing together stakeholders from across the private healthcare sector, including medical schemes, administrators, managed care organisations, policymakers, and other key players, we forged a path toward a more sustainable and transparent industry. The signing of the FWA Charter in 2019 marked a significant step forward, and the subsequent development and adoption of the Industry Codes of Good Practice and FWA Tribunal rules in 2022 have solidified our commitment to these principles.
Reflecting on the Section 59 Investigation, I am proud of the rigorous and independent inquiry we launched in response to allegations of racial discrimination by medical schemes and administrators. The establishment of a multi-disciplinary Steering Committee and the appointment of an independent panel underscored our dedication to justice and equity. The public hearings and thorough investigation led by Advocates Tembeka Ngcukaitobi SC, Adilla Hassim, and Kerry Williams have been crucial in addressing these serious allegations and ensuring that our healthcare system upholds the highest standards of fairness and inclusivity. I acknowledge that this investigation has taken longer than originally anticipated and these delays were due to factors outside our control as the CMS. I am looking forward to the imminent release of the final report.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges, and our response was swift and decisive. By ensuring that COVID-19 was recognised as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB), we guaranteed that members of medical schemes received the necessary care during this global crisis. Our successful complaint to the Competition Commission regarding the exorbitant prices of COVID-19 tests resulted in a significant 41% cost reduction, further demonstrating our unwavering commitment to protecting the public’s interests.
During my tenure, I had the privilege to lead the CMS team’s contribution to the policy formulation and planning around the National Health Insurance Act. CMS has contributed immensely through participation in various streams of the development of the NHI policy framework. The recent signing of the NHI Act by the President is a significant milestone in the history of the South African health system landscape.
We also embarked on a significant journey to enhance our organisational structure for improved effectiveness and efficiency. Through a comprehensive diagnostic exercise, we identified gaps and developed solutions to create a more streamlined and responsive CMS. The implementation of the new Service Delivery and Operating Model frameworks will undoubtedly lead the CMS to a brighter and more effective future.
As I reflect on these achievements, I am reminded of the incredible teamwork and collaboration that made them possible. Together, we have navigated complex challenges and driven meaningful change in the healthcare sector. My journey with the CMS has been deeply fulfilling, and I am confident that the organisation will continue to thrive under new leadership.
I fondly remember and honour the late Chairpersons of the CMS, Dr Clarence Mini and Prof Lungile Pepeta, with whom I had the privilege of working. I also wish to express my gratitude to the previous Council under the leadership of Dr Memela Makiwane. Additionally, I extend my gratitude to the new Council led by Dr Thandi Mabeba.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your unwavering support, dedication, and hard work. It has been a privilege to serve alongside you. As I embark on the next chapter of my journey, I carry with me the invaluable lessons and experiences gained during my time at the CMS.
May we continue to strive for excellence, transparency, and fairness in all our endeavours. The future of the CMS is bright, and I am excited to see what lies ahead.
Dr Sipho Kabane,
31 July 2024
