Niël Terblanché
A recent study by Afrobarometer has revealed that the majority of Namibians do not have medical aid coverage, with affordability being the primary barrier.
The survey’s findings indicate a growing concern among citizens about access to adequate healthcare and have sparked calls for government intervention, even if it requires raising taxes.
The Afrobarometer survey from March 2024 found that 85% of Namibians lack health insurance, with unaffordability being the primary cause for 74% of these respondents.
The survey, which included a nationally representative sample of 1 200 adult Namibians, highlights the widespread financial inaccessibility of medical aid, leaving most of the population vulnerable to the high costs of healthcare.
Private insurance plans cover nearly half (46%) of those with health insurance, while public sector insurance schemes (28%) and national health insurance (20%) enrol the remaining individuals.
The study also revealed that 78% of Namibians worry about falling ill and not being able to afford necessary medical care.
“This anxiety is pervasive across the country, as citizens face the daily risk of financial ruin in the event of serious illness,” the report states.
In response to these concerns, nearly two-thirds of Namibians (64%) believe that the government should ensure universal access to healthcare, even if it necessitates tax increases.
“This sentiment reflects a strong public demand for government-led solutions to the healthcare crisis,” the report indicates.
The Afrobarometer survey provides crucial insights into the state of healthcare in Namibia, highlighting the urgent need for reform.
The findings suggest a clear mandate from the public for the government to take decisive action in creating a universal health care system.
Afrobarometer has conducted similar surveys in Namibia since 1999, providing valuable data on the experiences and evaluations of democracy, governance, and quality of life across the continent.
According to the institute, the latest survey results constitute an urgent call for policymakers to address the healthcare needs of the Namibian population comprehensively.
