South Africa launches joint public-private think tank to drive universal healthcare reform

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has launched an innovative healthcare think tank, bringing together professionals from both public and private sectors to develop a universal healthcare strategy for the province. This is reported by IOL.

This initiative aims to improve patient care, optimise resource use, and foster collaboration across healthcare systems. Since its launch in March 2025, the think tank has been working to co-create a strategy focused on partnership and innovation to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the region.

A key focus is on practical solutions to improve healthcare delivery, including enabling public-sector patients to access specialised medical equipment and diagnostic services at private facilities where such resources are unavailable in the public system.

According to the source, as this collaborative effort develops, it promises to ease pressure on healthcare services, expand access to care, and ensure public funds are used effectively, setting a new standard for healthcare delivery in South Africa.

Other BRICS countries are also actively modernising their healthcare systems. For example, in Ethiopia, a Centre for Nuclear Technology has been established at one of the universities, which is expected to contribute to improved disease diagnosis and treatment, as well as the training of qualified specialists. In addition, research will be conducted there in the fields of energy and agriculture, according to the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), a partner of TV BRICS.

Meanwhile, Brazil’s Ministry of Health plans to allocate a record US$100.9 million to scientific research in 2025. The funding will support priority areas such as women’s health, oncology, and rare diseases. This was reported on the official website of the ministry.

Iranian authorities are also actively working to improve public health. Recently, Iran’s Ministry of Health launched a large-scale programme for the early diagnosis of the three most common types of cancer – breast, cervical, and colorectal – according to Tehran Times, a partner of TV BRICS.

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