Is Medical insurance Cheaper Than Medical Aid? What You Should Know!

Mondo Admin / 19-01-2023 / Financial News

Medical insurance in South Africa is becoming increasingly important for individuals, families and businesses alike. With the rising cost of medical care, the benefits of medical insurance are becoming more and more apparent. In this article, we will explore the cost-saving benefits of having medical insurance in South Africa and discuss how it can be an invaluable tool for managing healthcare costs.

The cost of healthcare in South Africa

Healthcare in South Africa can be expensive. Many citizens don’t have health insurance, which means they pay for their medical expenses out of pocket. This makes medical costs prohibitively high for many, even for basic medical care. The cost of a routine visit to the doctor can easily range from R250-R500 and a trip to the hospital can cost much more. Prescription medications are also quite costly, which just adds to the overall expenses.

Unfortunately, due to the high cost of healthcare in South Africa, many people simply cannot afford to access necessary medical treatments or even basic preventative care. This puts them at greater risk of illnesses, diseases and other conditions that can lead to long-term health issues, as well as financial burden.

Thus, having adequate health insurance is the best way to protect your health and finances against the costly burden of healthcare. Medical insurance helps to cover the costs of medical expenses, allowing individuals to access quality healthcare without having to worry about the price tag. In addition to protecting your finances, having medical insurance also provides peace of mind that should you ever need medical care, you will be able to get the help you need without putting a strain on your finances.

What is medical insurance: it is not medical aid!

Medical insurance is an important part of managing the cost of healthcare. It is not the same as medical aid, which is a scheme offering comprehensive health cover and usually has a monthly premium associated with it. Medical insurance, however, offers protection for specific treatments, such as outpatient visits or hospital stays.

Medical insurance is designed to help protect you from unexpected healthcare expenses that may not be covered by your medical aid scheme. This can include treatments not available on your medical aid scheme or, in some cases, treatments that exceed the benefits of your medical aid scheme.

In South Africa, medical insurance is provided by a variety of private insurers and allows you to tailor the cover to your specific needs. Generally, the insurer will pay a set percentage of the cost of certain treatments after a certain excess is paid. It is important to understand what is included in your medical insurance policy and what you are liable for paying out of pocket.

It is also important to note that medical insurance does not replace medical aid. While medical insurance can help you manage the cost of unexpected medical expenses, it does not provide the same level of cover as a medical aid scheme. It is important to remember that if you need ongoing treatment or require more extensive care than what is covered by your medical insurance policy, then you will need to pay for the additional costs yourself.

The benefits of having medical insurance

Medical insurance is an invaluable asset for individuals and families living in South Africa. Not only does it provide financial security in the case of an unexpected health event, but it also offers peace of mind in knowing that you are covered for any medical bills that may arise.

Firstly, with medical insurance, you will have access to quality healthcare services at a discounted rate. This means that you can have access to the best care available without having to pay full price.

Secondly, medical insurance can help you to save money in the long run. If you take out a policy with a good provider, you will be able to spread out your medical costs over a period of time, meaning that you won’t be faced with one large bill at once.

Thirdly, having medical insurance gives you the security of knowing that you are covered if anything were to happen to you. This can provide peace of mind and help to alleviate some of the financial stress associated with sudden medical expenses.

Finally, medical insurance can help to ease some of the pressure associated with managing your healthcare needs. Your provider will typically have a team of professionals on hand to help you manage your finances and paperwork, which can make all the difference in a difficult situation.

In summary, there are many benefits associated with having medical insurance in South Africa. It can provide financial security, access to quality care, long-term savings and peace of mind. It is therefore essential for anyone looking to protect themselves from the high costs of healthcare.

Additionally, if you are eligible, having medical insurance can also be beneficial for tax purposes. Depending on your provider and policy, you may be able to claim a portion of your medical costs as a tax deduction, allowing you to save even more money. Be sure to check with your provider to see what options are available to you.

What to look for when choosing a medical insurance provider

When it comes to choosing a medical insurance provider, it is important to be mindful of the services offered and the premiums you will pay. As healthcare costs are rising, it is important to make sure that you choose a provider that covers your needs, while still remaining within your budget.

Before signing up for a medical insurance plan, make sure to do some research and ask the following questions:

1.What type of coverage does the insurance plan offer?

  1. Are there any restrictions in terms of service providers or medical procedures?

  1. How much will you pay in premiums?

  1. Are there any additional benefits included in the plan?

  1. Does the plan cover pre-existing conditions?

  1. How long is the waiting period before coverage kicks in?

  1. Are there any other fees associated with the plan?

It is important to read through all of the details of the policy to ensure that it meets your needs and financial requirements. It is also helpful to speak to someone knowledgeable about insurance policies who can help you make an informed decision. Ultimately, the goal is to choose a plan that gives you the best value for money while providing the level of coverage that you need.

How to make the most of your medical insurance

Having medical insurance is a great way to save money on health care costs and ensure that you have access to quality healthcare when you need it. However, it’s important to make the most of your medical insurance so that you can really benefit from it. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your medical insurance:

  • Take advantage of the preventative benefits: Most medical insurance plans cover preventive health care such as annual check-ups and vaccinations. Taking advantage of these benefits can help you stay on top of your health and avoid more expensive treatments in the future.
  • Read your policy documents carefully: Before signing up for any medical insurance policy, it is important to read the policy documents carefully to understand what is covered and what isn’t. Knowing what is covered can help you make the most of your coverage and get the best possible value for your money.
  • Use network providers: Many medical insurance plans have networks of approved providers that offer discounted rates for services. If you can use a network provider, you will likely get a better rate than if you used an out-of-network provider.
  • Utilise the cost-saving features: Many insurance plans offer additional cost-saving features such as discounts on prescription drugs or discounts on gym memberships. Make sure you take advantage of these features to maximise the value of your medical insurance plan.
  • Take advantage of wellness programmes: Many insurers also offer wellness programmes that provide resources and support for staying healthy, such as educational materials, health trackers and discounts on health products and services. These programmes can help you save money in the long run by helping you stay healthy and avoid costly medical treatments.

By taking advantage of all the features and benefits of your medical insurance plan, you can make sure you are getting the most value for your money and ensuring that you have access to quality healthcare when you need it.

Having medical insurance in South Africa is a great way to save money and ensure access to quality healthcare. Medical insurance providers offer different levels of cover, so it's important to make sure you choose the right one for your needs. Taking advantage of all the benefits that come with being insured can help you make the most of your investment. By taking the time to compare providers and understand what's available, you can make an informed decision that helps protect you and your family's financial wellbeing.    

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Struggling With Debt in SA? Here’s Your 2025 Guide to Debt Review

Drowning in debt? You’re not alone. Here’s how debt review in South Africa works, who qualifies, what it costs, and how it can help you breathe again — updated for 2025.You’re Not Failing — You’re Taking Back ControlDebt can feel overwhelming — like a never-ending cycle of stress and bills. But there’s a legal way out, and it’s helped millions of South Africans take back control of their finances. It’s called debt review, and if your debt is keeping you up at night, this might be the lifeline you need.Let’s break down exactly how it works, who qualifies, what it costs, and what life looks like after debt review.So… What Is Debt Review?Debt review (also known as debt counselling) is a legal debt rescue plan introduced by the National Credit Act. It helps people who are over-indebted — meaning you’re earning money but still can’t afford to cover your monthly debt payments and basic living costs.With the help of a registered debt counsellor, your debts get restructured into one simplified monthly payment — at reduced interest rates — and you get full legal protection from creditors while you pay things off at your own pace.The Big Wins:✅ No more creditor calls or court threats✅ One lower monthly payment — not five or ten✅ Reduced interest rates✅ Court-approved, legally binding repayment plan✅ No new debt allowed while you’re in the process (for your own good)Who Can Apply?If you're working and overwhelmed by your monthly debt obligations, debt review might be for you.You’ll need:A steady income (salary, pension, or business income)To live in South AfricaTo be over-indebted (your income doesn’t cover all your debts + essentials)Heads up:Married in community of property? Your spouse must apply with you.Blacklisted? No worries — you can still qualify.Self-employed? You’ll need to show consistent income for a few months.How It Works — Step-by-Step1. Chat to a Registered Debt CounsellorOnly work with someone officially registered with the National Credit Regulator (NCR). You can double-check them on the NCR website. Avoid dodgy operators!2. Get AssessedYour counsellor will check your income, debts, and expenses. If you qualify:They’ll file your application (Form 16)Let your creditors and credit bureaus knowPause any legal action while your application is being processed3. Get a Custom Payment PlanYour counsellor will:Negotiate lower interest rates with your creditorsRestructure payment terms so your monthly instalment fits your budgetCombine your debts into one monthly paymentEnsure you’ve still got money left for groceries, rent, and transport4. Legal ApprovalYour new plan is submitted to court. Once approved, all creditors must follow it. You’re now protected — and on track to becoming debt-free.5. Pay One Amount Each MonthYour monthly payment goes to a Payment Distribution Agency (PDA). They split it between your creditors, as per the plan.How long does this take?Setup: 1–3 monthsRepayment period: Usually 2–5 yearsTotal journey: Most people finish within 24–60 monthsThe BenefitsFull Legal ProtectionNo more:Garnishee ordersRepossession threatsCalls from angry creditorsCourt judgments related to debtLower Monthly PaymentsYour monthly debt bill could drop by 30–50% thanks to:Reduced interest rates (from 20% down to 5–10%)Longer repayment termsWaived creditor feesBetter Cash Flow = Less StressMore room in your budget = more peace of mind.You’ll sleep better, breathe easier, and have cash for basics again.Avoid BankruptcyDebt review is often a much better alternative to sequestration. No permanent blacklisting. No asset loss (as long as you stick to the plan).Professional SupportYou’re not doing this alone. Your debt counsellor will:Negotiate with creditorsHelp you stick to your budgetTrack your progressOffer support whenever you need itThings to Keep in MindYou Can’t Take on New CreditWhile under review, you can’t open new accounts or take loans. This is part of your protection, not a punishment.There Are FeesDebt review isn’t free, but the fees are regulated and built into your repayment plan:One-time application & restructuring feesMonthly service feesLegal fees for the court orderA good counsellor will explain all of this upfront — no nasty surprises.Your Credit Record Will Show ItWhile under review:A flag appears on your credit reportYou may struggle to get rentals or credit-based servicesBUT: This gets removed after you complete the plan and get your clearance certificate 🎉Avoiding PitfallsSadly, over 1.3 million South Africans are stuck in debt review limbo — flagged but not actively repaying. Here’s how to avoid that:✅ Choose a legit, responsive counsellor✅ Stick to your repayment plan✅ Talk to your counsellor if your income changes✅ Don’t miss payments — they’re your lifeline✅ Use bonuses or windfalls to pay extra when you canAfter Debt Review: What Comes Next?You Get a Clearance CertificateOnce you’ve paid off everything in your plan, your counsellor gives you a Form 19 Clearance Certificate. This:Clears the debt review flagWipes negative listings from your credit recordTells credit bureaus you’ve completed the processRebuild Your Credit (Slowly & Smartly)Wait 2–3 months before applying for new creditStart with a small accountPay on time — in fullMonitor your score regularlyKeep spending under controlStay Debt-FreeNow that you’re free:Keep budgeting like a proBuild an emergency fundOnly use credit if you need itInvest in your financial wellnessFAQsCan I exit early?Only if you settle all your debt or get a court order — not easy, not cheap.Can I apply if I’ve lost my job?No income = no debt review. But if you lose your job during the process, your counsellor can pause or adjust your plan temporarily.Can I buy a car or home during debt review?Nope. But once you’re done and cleared, yes!Does it cover all my debts?Mostly unsecured debts (credit cards, loans). Your mortgage and car finance might stay separate but are factored into your budget.Is Debt Review Right for You?Yes, if:You’ve got a steady incomeYou’re behind on paymentsYou’re over-indebtedYou want a structured, legal path to recoveryMaybe not, if:You have no incomeYour debts are small and manageableYou’ve already failed debt review once beforeLet’s Wrap This UpDebt review isn’t a failure — it’s a smart move. It means you’re facing your finances head-on and choosing recovery over avoidance.Thousands of South Africans have already walked this path — and come out stronger on the other side. You can too.Take the first step today. Find a registered debt counsellor on the National Credit Regulator’s website and start building a future that’s debt-free — and stress-free.

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Can You Get a Phone Contract with Bad Credit?

Been turned down for a phone contract because of your credit? You’re not alone. Around 80% of South Africans have hit that same wall. Networks have gotten stricter — and if your credit’s taken a few knocks or you’ve been blacklisted, getting a contract can feel impossible.But here’s the good news: you can still get a contract, even with bad credit. You might just need to start small, be smart, and build your way up.Why Networks Say NoGetting a phone contract is a bit like applying for a loan. When you go for a R10,000 device on a 24-month deal, the network’s taking a risk — and they want to make sure you’re good for it.What They Check:Any missed payments or defaultsJudgments or collections under your nameYour overall credit scoreWhether you’re already deep in debtEven if you’ve never had debt before, that can work against you too. No credit history = no proof that you can handle monthly payments. It’s a frustrating Catch-22: you need credit to build credit, but you need credit history to get started.Your Income Matters TooEven with a decent score, you can still be declined if your income doesn’t match the deal you’re going for. Networks want to know that you can comfortably afford the monthly payments and your other bills.For example: If you earn R4,000/month and apply for a R500 contract, that’s more than 10% of your income — a red flag for many providers.When You’ll Automatically Be DeclinedSome things are deal-breakers, no matter what:Debt Review: If you’re under debt counselling, the law says no new credit allowed.Judgments: A court judgment against your name is a straight-up no.Sequestration / Administration: Legal insolvency = not eligible.So, What Can You Do?Here’s how to turn a “no” into a “yes” — even with a not-so-great credit score:Start SmallIf you can’t get a top-end phone right now, don’t stress. Try applying for:A SIM-only contract (no phone, just data & minutes)A deal with a more affordable deviceSIM-only is a great stepping stone. The risk to the network is lower, so your chances of getting approved are higher.Pro tip: Use a smaller deal to prove you’re reliable — pay on time, every time — and you’ll open doors to bigger contracts later.Build Your Payment Track RecordGot a SIM-only or entry-level deal? Great! Now the goal is simple: pay like a pro.Every on-time payment gets reported to credit bureaus, helping you build (or rebuild) your score. After 6–12 months, you could qualify for an upgrade or a better phone.New for 2025: Smarter Scoring, More OpportunityMTN and TransUnion recently launched a game-changing feature: Telco Data Score. It looks at your mobile behaviour — like how often you recharge, call, and use data — instead of just your credit history.That means:No credit history? No problem.You might qualify based on how you use your phone.It’s early days, but it’s a step towards making contracts more accessible for everyone.5 Steps to Boost Your Approval Odds1. Check Your Credit ReportStart here. It’s free from TransUnion, Experian or ClearScore. Look for:Any mistakes you can fixOld debt you can settleOutdated info you can disputeSmall fixes can lead to big improvements!2. Don’t Apply Everywhere at OnceGetting declined sucks, but don’t spam every network. Each application hits your score.Instead:Wait 3–6 months between triesGo for simpler plans first (SIM-only, cheaper phones)Understand why you were declined before trying again3. Build Credit ElsewherePhone contracts aren’t the only way to build trust:Open a small clothing or furniture store accountTry a secured credit card (with a deposit)Make sure your utilities are in your name and paid on time4. Prove You’re Financially StableBefore applying:Stick with your job (avoid job-hopping)Have your payslips, ID and proof of address readyAvoid applying while under debt reviewPreparation shows responsibility — and that counts.5. Go Prepaid While You PrepCan’t get a contract yet? That’s okay.Use prepaid while you build creditSet aside the amount you’d spend on a contract each monthSave for a deposit to increase your approval odds laterSome providers even let you convert to a contract from prepaid without a new credit check.Talk It OutWith Creditors: If you're struggling with payments, talk to them before they report you. You might be able to set up a payment plan that protects your credit.With Networks: Be honest in your application. Explain your situation. Some providers are willing to help if they see you're serious about improving.How Long Does It Take?TimeframeWhat You Can Do0–6 monthsFix report errors, start a SIM-only deal, pay on time6–18 monthsBuild strong payment history, apply for basic phones18+ monthsAim for top-tier contracts, better terms, latest phonesMistakes to AvoidWant to get approved? Don’t do these:Apply while under debt review (it won’t work)Skip documents or send blurry photosIgnore old debtsJob-hop right before applyingApply to 5 networks in 1 day (your score will take a hit)The Final WordGetting a contract with bad credit isn’t easy — but it’s totally doable. You just need a plan:✅ Check your credit✅ Start small✅ Pay perfectly✅ Upgrade when ready✅ Be patient and consistentYour credit situation doesn’t define you. And every smart move you make brings you closer to that shiny new smartphone deal.

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Top 5 Car Brands Protected by Roadwise Motor Warranty

Ever wondered which cars are the most popular on South African roads that are protected by Roadwise Motor Warranty? As the leading provider of extended car warranties, we have all the details.But first, here’s a summary of what an extended car warranty is and why you need it:This type of cover keeps you financially protected against unexpected mechanical or electrical breakdowns by covering repairs or replacements for specific car parts and associated labour costs.All new cars in South Africa come with a factory warranty, but once it expires—based on years or mileage provided by the manufacturer—you’ll need an extended warranty.It pays out for all types of car parts, even the costliest, like engine parts, gearboxes, steering mechanisms, and fuel systems. A highly specialised cover, this goes beyond your car insurance and service and maintenance plans.Now, let’s unpack the most popular cars our customers are driving.1. ToyotaModel: CorollaAn icon on South African roads and the world’s best-selling vehicle, the Toyota Corolla is one of the most popular brands covered by Roadwise Motor Warranty. With over a million units sold in SA since 1975, the Corolla stands out as the preferred family car. We are honoured that so many of our customers trust us to financially protect them and their families from unexpected breakdowns. With Roadwise Motor Warranty, you can rest assured knowing your beloved Corolla is well cared for and remains reliable for years to come.2. VW Models: Polo and Polo VivoSouth Africa’s best-selling passenger vehicle in 2023 and currently still in the lead in 2024, the Polo Vivo unsurprisingly takes a spot on our list. It's joined by its pricier sibling, the Polo, both of which are locally-built hatchbacks that dominate South African roads. VW is one of the most loved brands in SA with a rich seven-decade history, and we’re proud that so many of our customers trust us to take care of these highly sought-after models. Renowned for their stylish design, robust build quality, and top-notch driving dynamics, the Polo and Polo Vivo show no signs of slowing down, especially with Roadwise Motor Warranty ensuring they stay on the road for longer.3. Ford Models: Figo, Fiesta, and KugaOur Ford customers come from all walks of life. Many students, first-time car buyers, small families, and those starting out in their careers choose our extended warranty for their Ford Figo or Ford Fiesta. These budget-friendly hatchbacks are known for their accessibility and reliability. The Ford Kuga also features on this list because South Africans simply love midsize SUVs that cater to their growing families and make excellent companions for epic road trips.4. Suzuki Models: Swift and JimnyOur Suzuki customer base is rapidly growing as more South Africans buy the Suzuki Swift or Jimny. It's hard to miss these cars on our roads these days compared to just a few years ago. Whether you opt for a Swift due to its unmatched value for money and stylish appeal or prefer the adventure-ready mini-SUV Jimny, one thing is certain: Roadwise Motor Warranty overs all your journeys.5. Renault Models: Duster, Clio, Sandero, and KwidA diverse range of Renault drivers opt for our extended warranty, from thrill-seekers tackling rough terrains with the muscular-designed Renault Duster SUV to city dwellers effortlessly navigating urban streets with the compact hatchbacks—the Clio and Sandero—and those seeking sporty and spacious options like the Renault Kwid, ideal for enjoying the great outdoors. This diversity underscores the trust our customers place in us to keep them protected, whether they're exploring off-road, cruising to the coast, or navigating busy city traffic.6. Nissan Models: X-Trail, Micra, and MagniteNissan deserves a spot on this list as we've noticed an increasing number of our extended warranty sign-ups from this legendary Japanese brand. Standout models include the luxurious Nissan X-Trail SUV, the compact and trendy Nissan Micra hatchback, and the comfortable Nissan Magnite crossover SUV. This highlights that whether you're a small family, large family, first-time buyer, or adventure enthusiast, you can always depend on Roadwise Motor Warranty, no matter where the road takes you.It’s no secret that we South Africans love our cars and take pride in keeping them well-maintained and running smoothly for years. Choose Roadwise Motor Warranty as your trusted partner for every road trip, daily commute, and of course, those spontaneous late-night drives.

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