With the world suddenly far more aware of physical health and wellbeing than ever, you may be considering an affordable medical aid scheme. Whether you are a first time prospect, or are looking to change the way you currently manage your healthcare expenses, there are a few reasons why the right plan is wise. The fact is, nobody who needs an emergency hospital stay for recovery, treatments, and procedures ever foresees the costs involved, and planning for the day you might need in-hospital care is essential.
Financial Protection
Hospitalisation bills in South Africa don’t come cheap and every citizen is only one unfortunate accident away from paying off this debt for the rest of their lives. There is simply no way to foresee whether or not you will face an emergency, illness, or accident and planning for it is the only way to protect yourself from financial ruin. In the long run, those who have been through costly procedures and hospital stays will tell you that those monthly contributions are far more affordable.
Early Care When It’s Needed
Individuals who rely on public hospitals and GP visits paid out of their own pockets often wait until it’s too late to seek healthcare. This means that diseases, infections, and injuries are left to get worse and early screenings of treatable conditions are often neglected. This, in itself, is dangerous. Treating a progressed condition is always more costly than catching it early, after all. With the right cover, you won’t need to worry about waiting until the last minute for help.
Private Healthcare Is Preferable
Public hospitals in South Africa often struggle with capacity and overcrowded rooms. Getting quick, quality care may not always be possible, which is a primary concern for South Africans with chronic health issues. Selecting an affordable medical aid scheme means you have the option of visiting a private hospital when you need it. This equates to personalised care and attention, and access to the best procedures and early-treatment plans from a multidisciplinary team.
Tax Relief for Monthly Contributions
If you pay monthly contributions to a registered medical aid scheme, the government makes this more affordable in the form of tax rebates. This tax relief, known as “tax credits”, is a percentage that is deducted from your tax liability and is paid back to you. This means that, when filing your taxes correctly, you will actually be saving some money.
It’s Not Just About Emergencies
Having an affordable medical aid scheme is not just about covering accidental injuries and emergency illness. Your overall health should always be a priority, as it affects your quality of life. Healthcare needs that require nursing, minor surgeries, physiotherapy, dental visits, and medication should never be neglected and cover for these instances is ideal too.
Here at Medshield, we take care of our valued members. We focus on their health by continually improving access to medical care and benefits and ensuring that member contributions remain affordable across the board. To find out more, get your quick and easy online quote today.