Parliament, Saturday, 2 May 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Health expressed its deep concern and disappointment regarding the persistent systemic failures within the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS).
The committee is particularly troubled that the entity’s laboratory services do not adhere to the World Health Organization (WHO) Laboratory Framework, raising serious questions about the quality, reliability, and governance of diagnostic services in the public health system.
The committee said, of grave concern are the prolonged turnaround times for laboratory results, particularly in pathology services. It emphasised that these delays are not merely administrative inefficiencies but have life-threatening consequences. Patients are reportedly dying before receiving critical diagnoses, including cancer results. This situation is unacceptable and underscores a systemic failure that is betraying millions of South Africans who depend on these services.
The committee further noted that the NHLS has regressed from a qualified audit opinion to a disclaimer, which signals a breakdown in financial management and governance. The committee is deeply concerned that there remains no clear evidence of consequence management.
This failure to hold individuals accountable reinforces a culture of impunity. The committee reiterated its demand for full transparency on disciplinary actions, including the identification of responsible officials and the steps taken against them.
While the NHLS highlighted its training initiatives, the committee was not satisfied that these efforts demonstrate meaningful impact. The continued reliance on outsourcing, particularly in core services, raised concerns about sustainability and value for money.
The committee said there is insufficient evidence to suggest that these approaches are strengthening internal capacity or improving service delivery. It was also concerned that the NHLS has not adequately addressed the critical shortage of pathologists, a scarce skill globally.
While the private sector is advancing solutions such as digital pathology to mitigate these shortages, there is no clear plan or timeline from the NHLS on the implementation of such technologies. This lack of strategic direction further exacerbates service delivery challenges.
In addition, the committee highlighted the insufficient focus on supporting medical scientists and technologists. These professionals are essential to the functioning of laboratory services, yet they do not appear to receive the same level of attention and support as other categories of staff. Strengthening this cadre is vital to improving efficiency, reducing backlogs, and ensuring sustainable service delivery.
The committee also raised serious concerns about ongoing operational failures, including weaknesses in procurement, infrastructure, and information systems. These failures continue to expose the organisation to operational risks, including cybersecurity threats, and undermine public confidence in the NHLS.
The committee demanded urgent, measurable, and time-bound interventions to stabilise the NHLS. This must include restoring governance, enforcing consequence management, investing in internal capacity, and ensuring compliance with both national obligations and international standards.
The Chairperson of the committee, Ms Muthambi, said: “The committee will intensify its oversight to enforce accountability at the NHLS and ensure that its shortcomings no longer undermine the integrity of the public health system.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, MS FAITH MUTHAMBI.
For media inquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Yoliswa Landu (Ms)
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E-mail: ylandu@parliament.gov.za
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