The original closing date for written submissions was 11 October, but given the magnitude of the NHI, the Portfolio Committee on Health received numerous requests from stakeholders for an extension to mid-November.

“We have been considering the requests from relevant stakeholders who play an important role in the delivery of healthcare in the country. We have actually agreed to extend the closing date for written submissions to 29 November 2019,” Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, chairperson of the committee, said.

The new closing date for the written submissions doesn’t affect the start of the public hearings, which are scheduled to start on 25 October 2019 in Mpumalanga.

Written submissions must be directed to Vuyokazi Majalamba and be addressed to the Portfolio Committee on Health 3rd floor, 90 Plein Street, Cape Town 8000 or e-mailed to vmajalamba@parliament.gov.za, or faxed to 086 6943279 by no later than 29 November 2019.

In addition to the written comments, people should indicate their interest in making a verbal presentation.