A group of kidney specialists is trying to delay the liquidation of Health Squared Medical Scheme by two months, arguing that the troubled scheme has enough funds to cover patients while they secure appropriate alternative cover.

A Business Day report says their intervention this week in Health Squared’s High Court application for voluntary liquidation has not only highlighted the plight of severely ill patients, but also raised questions about how much longer it can cover claims.

Kidney dialysis costs up to R30 000 a month in the private sector, and public sector facilities were not a viable alternative, he said.

‘The public sector is full, and they will be sent home to die,’ said SA Nephrology Society president Shoyab Wadee.

‘All our patients are scrambling. They are desperate.’

In his application to intervene in Health Squared’s liquidation application, launched on 30 August, Wadee said the scheme indicated in its founding affidavit that it had sufficient funds to cover claims until the end of the year.

Health Squared principal officer Elias Mabena responded in papers, saying the situation worsened since the scheme announced plans to close shop.

Its latest financial assessment indicated it may be unable to pay claims after 31 August, he said.

The report adds Wadee’s application to intervene is due to be heard today.

Full Business Day report