Healthcare news and intelligence for Southern Africa

Daily reporting for the pharmaceutical, medical scheme and hospital sectors, published by Health Matters since 1994.

8 October 2026

Cancer in South Africa is rising, with deaths forecast to nearly double by 2050. Learn what ageing, smoking and urbanisation mean for care.

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26 July 2024

Big pharma giants are cutting CAR-T therapy manufacturing time to expand access for aggressive cancer patients, aiming for faster, life-extending treatments.

26 July 2024

Sick days cost the economy an estimated R19 billion annually. Do South African employees need more support to stay healthy and productive at work?

26 July 2024

South Africa's research on elite controllers uncovers unique genetic factors in HIV control, promising new treatments and vaccines for African populations.

26 July 2024

Pharmacy benefit managers defended their roles in a Congressional hearing amid accusations of promoting expensive treatments. Executives claimed their models save money, while a report highlighted anti-competitive practices and high drug prices.

26 July 2024

Understand the Gauteng cancer backlog controversy, where legal actions aim to expedite radiation therapy for 3,000 awaiting patients.

26 July 2024

By year's end, 867 South African clinics will offer the HIV prevention injection CAB-LA, using 96,000 doses donated by the US government.

25 July 2024

Ramaphosa promises equitable healthcare through the controversial NHI scheme, while Dr Kgosi Letlape urges public servants to use public health services.

25 July 2024

Ramaphosa expresses confidence in securing buy-in for the NHI rollout, emphasizing the need for public-private sector collaboration.

25 July 2024

TB patient costs are pushing South African households into poverty as transport expenses, lost wages and limited social support disrupt care.

25 July 2024

South Africa has begun implementing targeted universal testing, offering TB tests to high-risk individuals regardless of symptoms.

25 July 2024

The soon-to-be-opened Crestcare Malmesbury Hospital will relieve the pain of Swartland town residents who currently travel 40km for hospitalisation.

25 July 2024

The Eastern Cape faces severe budget constraints, leading to critical shortages and service disruptions, highlighting significant challenges in health management.

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