Orphans, Schooling and Medical Aid Coverage in the Era of HIV/AIDS in South Africa

Henry V Doctor, Statistics South Africa
Zodwa M Radasi, University of the Western Cape

Using data from the 2003 General Household Survey, we examine the level of orphanhood and its impact on school enrolment and medical aid coverage in South Africa. Results show that the proportions of orphanhood increases with age and that non-orphans are 42 per cent more likely to be enrolled in school than orphans. Non-orphans are about four times more likely to be enrolled in a medical aid scheme than orphans. These findings call for the continued support of the government and the extended family in enhancing the welfare of orphans.