Key things to consider when choosing medical aid cover in SA
Written by Vuyile Madwantsi
South African healthcare operates on the two-tiered system that is arguably linked to socio-economic disparities. Naturally, there are benefits and drawbacks to both public and private health care.
The availability of public health care comes with a number of disadvantages, including lengthy waiting times, rushed appointments, obsolete facilities and inadequate disease management and prevention methods. Due to the vast economic differences in our country, other citizens have the option of private care.
The private healthcare sector has advantages over the public health-care system, such as short waiting times, flexible appointment scheduling, superior facilities and efficient disease management and prevention techniques.
The quality of state-provided health care has been steadily declining. In South Africa, few people would have the money to get medical care without medical aid. Spending even a week in hospital can leave a financial dent.
Because of this, we must do our research before selecting a medical aid in terms of coverage and pricing. Finding the correct medical plan to support you as you navigate the health-care system can be challenging given the variety of possibilities.
Lee Callakoppen, principal officer of Bonitas Medical Fund, explains that there are 17 open medical schemes in South Africa, each with its own set of plans and benefits. “Trying to decide what is best can be a little overwhelming, which is why we advise consulting a medical aid broker or financial adviser.”
Brokers are eligible to provide advice and support at no additional cost since they have been accredited by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS).
Before selecting a medical aid plan, you and your partner can talk through the many options. The financial stability of the schemes is another factor that brokers are aware of, and it should be taken into account when making a final choice.
The majority of medical plans include a variety of health-care options, including traditional medical aids as well as hospital, savings, network, or income-based plans that help reduce the cost of private health care.
Medical aid in South Africa: what to consider
Affordability:
Determine what you can afford by carefully reviewing your monthly budget plan. Contributions should not be greater than 10% of your monthly income.
Health status:
To decide what coverage you require, assess you and your family’s health at the moment. Consider pre-existing diseases or illnesses, any chronic medications or treatments that you or your family members take, how frequently you visit a doctor or specialist, how much you spend on dentistry or optometry, as well as any chronic medications or treatments. This will help you decide whether you need comprehensive medical aid or a hospital plan.
