CAPE TOWN - The National Council of Provinces has passed the NHI Bill.
This was the next step after the National Assembly gave it the thumbs-up in June.
Eight provinces besides the Western Cape voted in support.
One of the purposes of the Bill is to establish a National Health Insurance Fund.
The Fund will purchase healthcare services for all users who are registered with it.
Government says the Bill seeks to ensure universal health coverage for all.
South Africans will have the right to access comprehensive healthcare services free of charge at accredited health facilities, such as clinics, hospitals, and private health practitioners.