CUTTING THROUGH THE CLUTTER AT BHF 2008

2008/05/22

 This year’s BHF conference is focused on the theme of cutting the Gordian knot. As the legend goes, whoever was able to undo the Gordian knot would rule Asia. Theoretically it was seen as possible but the practical untying of the knot was not possible.. Of course, Alexander the Great solved the problem with a single cut from his sword and went on to rule Asia. The conference is attempting  to cut through the immensely complicated changes required at every level in order to implement a National Health Insurance system for South Africa.

The objectives of having a National Health Insurance system include,  giving equal access to health insurance. The other challenge that faces the private health insurance industry is the spiraling costs of health care which has hampered their efforts to offer a great section of the population access to a medical aid. The complexity of the initiative is huge due to the issues of coverage, how the insurance will be funded, the structure of the benefit package and a myriad of other elements that need to be put in place before the system can become viable.

This year’s BHF conference is dedicated to solidifying solutions to the practical problems. Europ Assistance SA is proud to be a sponsor of this year’s BHF conference and we look forward to seeing many of our valued clients there to find ways together to cut the clutter.