How public healthcare works

A general guide. How it works can differ by province and by facility. When in doubt, phone the facility or ask at your clinic.

Start at a clinic

Public clinics give primary healthcare. Services differ between clinics. Most people start here.

Community health centres

Community health centres usually offer more services than a clinic. Some are open 24 hours.

Hospitals and referral

Public hospitals are organised in levels, from district hospitals to regional, tertiary and central hospitals. In most cases a clinic or a lower-level hospital refers you to the next level when you need it. Ask for a referral letter and take it with you.

Private facilities

Private hospitals and clinics usually expect payment or medical aid. Ask about costs before treatment, except in an emergency.

In an emergency

Call 10177 for an ambulance, or 112 from a cell phone. Namela Care cannot send help and cannot tell you whether a facility can treat you right now.