Chronic meds
632 public facilities across South Africa
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are now South Africa's second-leading cause of death. Hypertension alone affects 1 in 3 adults, and diabetes prevalence has doubled in 15 years. Public clinics manage these conditions for free — including consultation, blood tests, and all medication on the Essential Drugs List. The biggest challenge is not access but adherence: studies show only 50-60% of chronic patients in the public sector take medication consistently. The CCMDD programme (Central Chronic Medicine Dispensing and Distribution) now serves 4.9 million patients, allowing stable chronic patients to collect medication from convenient pickup points instead of waiting at the clinic.
What to expect
A doctor or nurse diagnoses the condition and runs baseline blood work (fasting glucose, HbA1c for diabetes; creatinine and lipids for hypertension). Treatment starts immediately.
Return monthly or bi-monthly to collect pre-packaged medication. Quick vital signs check (BP, weight) at each visit.
Every 3 months: deeper consultation, adherence review, dose adjustment if needed, possible blood tests.
Full blood panel, eye screening referral (diabetes), foot exam, prescription renewal for the year.
Once stable, your medication can be collected from a pharmacy, community pickup point, or adherence club — no clinic queue.
Who is eligible?
Anyone diagnosed with a chronic condition at a public facility. The most common: hypertension, diabetes (type 2), epilepsy, asthma, depression, and HIV (managed as a chronic condition). No means test — medication is free.
Read the full guide
Our guide covers everything in detail: step-by-step process, FAQs, and practical tips.
Chronic Medication at Public Clinics →