The Department of Health (DoH) derives its mandate from the National Health Act of 2003, which requires that the department provides a framework for a structured and uniform health system for South Africa and sets out the responsibilities of the three levels of government in the provision of health services. Its mission is to improve health by preventing illness and disease, and promoting healthy lifestyles. It aims to consistently improve the healthcare delivery system by focusing on access, equity, efficiency, quality and sustainability.
 
Over the medium term, the department aimed to focus on preventing and treating communicable and noncommunicable diseases by continuing to strengthen primary healthcare (PHC); supporting tertiary services; and strengthening health systems, including infrastructure, in preparation for the introduction of National Health Insurance (NHI).
 
Further information is available at: Health | South African Government