Bestmed, a South African medical scheme, has announced a 7.35 percent average weighted increase in contributions for 2027. This decision was made in response to member feedback and the rising costs of healthcare and living. According to Leo Dlamini, CEO and Principal Officer of Bestmed Medical Scheme, South African households are facing financial pressure due to global and local economic developments.
The 2027 benefit changes aim to provide greater choice, strengthen preventative care, and deliver more value while maintaining the scheme's long-term sustainability. Dlamini stated that the approach for 2027 was driven by stakeholder feedback, focusing on understanding the needs of members and making changes that address these needs. The scheme's solvency ratio stands at 37.3 percent, above the statutory minimum of 25 percent.
One of the key changes is the introduction of a new benefit called Best Bucks. Qualifying members will receive R1,000 per family after completing their Tempo Lifestyle Screenings. This amount can be used for eligible consultations, radiology, and pathology before claims are paid from medical savings or other day-to-day benefits. The goal is to encourage members to complete health screenings while providing additional funding for certain healthcare costs.
Bestmed is also expanding its preventative healthcare cover for 2027. The scheme will cover respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) antibodies for babies on all options and paediatric immunisations on Beat1. Additionally, a R151 monthly maternity supplement will be introduced on Beat2. Members on the Beat and Pace ranges, as well as Rhythm2, will have access to two postnatal consultations.
Female members aged 45 and older on Pace 1 will qualify for bone-density screening every 24 months. The scheme will also extend HPV vaccination to males. Eligible babies born between January and May will have access to RSV protection during the infection season. These preventative-care benefits will be funded from the scheme's risk pool, subject to the rules of the relevant benefit option.
The changes reflect Bestmed's efforts to enhance its offerings in response to member needs and the rising costs of healthcare. By providing additional benefits and increasing contributions, the scheme aims to balance the needs of its members with the need to maintain its financial sustainability. The 2027 changes are designed to promote preventative care and provide more value to members.
The Council for Medical Schemes has recommended a 3.8 percent benchmark for 2027 contribution increases. Schemes seeking higher increases are required to provide detailed financial and actuarial justification. Bestmed's 7.35 percent average weighted increase is higher than the recommended benchmark, reflecting the scheme's specific financial situation and the rising costs of healthcare in South Africa.
Key points
- Bestmed's 2027 benefit changes include a 7.35 percent average weighted contribution increase and expanded preventative healthcare cover.
- The scheme's solvency ratio stands at 37.3 percent, above the statutory minimum of 25 percent.
- The changes aim to provide greater choice, strengthen preventative care, and deliver more value while maintaining the scheme's long-term sustainability.
