Healthcare Access
Healthcare is a right. Your permit status does not change that.
How GDSA Can Help
Get help with public and private healthcare, know your rights as a patient, and connect with community health resources. Our community team provides direct guidance, document preparation support, and referrals to specialist partners. We walk with you through each step of the process.
Step-by-Step Process
- 1
All migrants have the right to emergency healthcare in South Africa regardless of status
- 2
Public clinics and hospitals are legally required to provide emergency treatment
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For non-emergency care, find your nearest public clinic (PHC facility)
- 4
The Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) advocates for your healthcare rights
- 5
GDSA can provide letters of support to healthcare facilities
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For maternal care: all pregnant women have the right to give birth in a South African hospital
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a hospital refuse to treat me because I'm undocumented?
Not in an emergency. The National Health Act guarantees emergency care to everyone. If refused, call GDSA or the Health Ombud immediately.
Is HIV/TB treatment available to migrants?
Yes. South Africa's universal ARV and TB treatment programmes are open to all people in the country, regardless of documentation status.