Private health insurance in South Africa has risen between 12% and 15% annually over the past 7 years according to the website of the country’s largest healthcare insurer, Discovery Life. Despite this, the escalating cost of good medical care coupled with the unacceptable conditions of many of the public hospitals has made the purchase of private healthcare in South Africa a necessity.

But the wide range of health insurance and medical aid schemes with the cover offered varying from limited to comprehensive makes choosing the right healthcare company for your needs downright confusing. Here, then, are some tips to ensure you get the right medical insurance at the right price.

Check what is covered

Firstly, take care when comparing policies to check the extent of the cover offered and to ensure you are aware of any exclusions (usually buried deep in the small print).

And how long your cover lasts

Secondly, you need to know that your policy will stand the test of time! Avoid companies that reserve the right to cancel a policy should you contract a serious illness or reach the maximum insurable age as it may be difficult or impossible to find alternative cover under these conditions. Similarly, steer clear of short term contracts where the company can refuse to renew the policy when you are most in need of it.

Know what you need

Be clear about your medical requirements. Premiums differ significantly depending upon your choice of cover. If you are young, fit and able to pay your own way as far as the family doctor and occasional medication is concerned, you might decide that limited cover in the form of a basic hospital plan treatment is all you need.

If, however, you or your family have medical conditions such as diabetes, if you have young children or are getting on in years, a comprehensive cover including chronic medication benefits would probably be necessary.

Unfortunately good cover does not come cheap and if you feel that comprehensive insurance is unaffordable, a good hospital plan can mean the difference between the best possible treatment in a private hospital and admittance to a public facility in the event of a medical emergency.

Honesty really is the best policy

Whatever cover you choose, be sure to fill in the health questionnaire completely and honestly. Include all previous illnesses or hospitalization, and, of course, current illnesses and treatment. One of the reasons that most health insurance companies do not insist on a medical examination prior to acceptance is that if any previous medical conditions are not disclosed they have a legal right to reject a claim. There is no point in paying for medical cover if you are not going to benefit from it when you need it!

Who pays and when?

Preferably ensure that your medical aid or insurance will pay the doctors or hospital directly. Some companies take their time about meeting their responsibilities and if you’re required to pay up front you could be considerably out of pocket while waiting to be reimbursed.

Your health is your most prized possession and should be given priority when planning your insurance needs. Failure to do so could result in a significant financial burden should you suddenly be faced with a serious medical emergency.