ASSA Talk Series – Universal Surgical Health Coverage in South Africa – 20 May 2026
The Association of Surgeons of South Africa (ASSA) is pleased to invite you to the next presentation in the 2026 Universal Surgical Health Coverage Talk Series.
This series explores the structure and evolution of healthcare systems, the South African context, and the implications of National Health Insurance (NHI) for surgical care. It brings together leading experts to examine how health systems function and what reforms mean for equitable access to surgical services.
Programme details:
Date: Wednesday, 20 May 2026
Time: 18h00
Speaker: Professor Nicholas Crisp
Topic: National Health Insurance (NHI) and Access to Surgical Care
Professor Nicholas Crisp is the Deputy Director-General for National Health Insurance at South Africa’s National Department of Health. A medical doctor and public health specialist, he has extensive experience in health systems across Africa.
He has held senior leadership roles in provincial health departments, founded and led Benguela Health, and contributed to major national reforms including the establishment of the NHLS and SAHPRA. He also played a key role in the COVID-19 vaccination programme and currently leads work on NHI implementation.
This session will provide valuable insights into the evolving NHI landscape in South Africa, with a specific focus on its implications for surgical services, access to care, and the role of surgeons within a universal health coverage framework.

Meeting Details
To register for the presentation by Professor Nicholas Crisp on 20 May at 18h00:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/q2E_sWaxRz29WJ3jX0Yb1w
Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email with details on how to join the webinar.
We encourage all surgeons and interested stakeholders to attend this important and timely discussion.
