South African health care expenditure, 1975-1984

South African health care expenditure is reported for the period 1975-1984 and analysed for the public and private sectors. Approximately 5.9% of South Africa's gross national product was devoted to health care in 1984-1985. This proportion appears to be increasing. Real per capita expenditure on health increased by 13% during the period under review. Trends of health care expenditure during the decade are discussed as well as some underlying causes of the increases in health care expenditure in South Africa. Precise expenditure data and outcome information are required in order to ensure appropriate resource allocation.