Many of you reading this article will have already renewed your medical aid membership. For newcomers, though, making an informed choice will be crucial. However, if you are applying for the first time, there are three things you should be aware of:
- There will be an initial three-month waiting period during which you will be responsible for paying your medical bills.
- If you have a pre-existing illness when you join, you cannot claim any expenses relating to that condition for the first 12 months of your membership.
- If you are 35 or over and a first-time applicant, your premiums will be subjected to a late-joiner penalty based on how many years you have waited before seeking cover.
Apart from those employed in a company that participates in a group medical aid scheme, anyone seeking financial support with private healthcare expenses must apply to one of South Africa’s 18 open schemes. Each offers a range of products designed to cover most medical needs while being affordable to as many people as possible.
Medical Aid: Affordability vs Benefits
The pandemic of 2020 left every nation’s economy reeling. In 2024, we are still feeling the effects as prices continue to soar, forcing some to resign from their medical scheme or downsize their cover. Don’t panic. Your health is too important to be measured in Rands. Private healthcare prices may have increased, but at KeyHealth Medical, we have worked hard to provide our members with more affordable products ranging from an entry-level hospital plan to fully comprehensive cover.
Price has become a factor in most buying decisions today, so you must choose a product you are confident you can afford. A hospital plan can be an excellent way to economise while adequately protecting your family’s health. For individuals with good general health, the KeyHealth Essence option provides unlimited cover for emergencies and unexpected medical expenses arising from surgery and hospitalisation.
Your choice should be based on your known and anticipated needs, bearing in mind your agreed spending limit. Remember that all products have prescribed minimum benefits, which include cover for 26 chronic illnesses. If you need to check, there is a full list of these on the CMS website.
All Keyhealth products include an unlimited hospital plan. Furthermore, whichever product you choose, you will be automatically entitled to three additional core benefits at no charge.
Let KeyHealth Help You Choose Medical Aid
We have supported South Africans’ private healthcare needs for over 50 years. Contact us and call on our experience to help you choose the best KeyHealth product for your family’s needs in 2024.
