Council for Medical Aids
Everybody wants access to good medical care, and the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) regulates the medical schemes industry. People sometimes call this body the Council for Medical Aids.
They are essentially protecting the interests of the South African public and shielding them from bad medical aid governance. They will, for instance, advise the public on how to select the best medical scheme. They also advise customers to make sure that the scheme is registered in terms of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998.
Council for Medical Aids – Find Out More about your Medical Aid
Customers can find the names and contact details of all registered medical schemes on the website of the Council for Medical Schemes. Information about the benefits of a medical scheme, its premiums each month, its waiting periods, limitations, and exclusions can be requested from your medical scheme.
If you do make use of the services of a broker, make sure that the broker is accredited by the Council for Medical Schemes. To make certain that a broker is accredited, members of a medical scheme can insist that the broker produce proof of accreditation with Council.
they monitor the financial stability of all the different medical schemes.
they co-ordinate the functioning of medical schemes to ensure they are complementary with the national health policy.
they collect information about private health care in the country.
They make recommendations to the Minister of Health about health services provided by medical schemes.
The Council for Medical Schemes meets at least 4 times a year. However, special meetings can be called for the chairperson or the majority of members may request a meeting. The minister too, can request a meeting. The Council also has Subcommittees which also meet from time to time on a regular basis.
If you’re interested, the Council for Medical Schemes also offers some programs as part of Consumer Awareness and Education Initiatives. If you want to have questions on your medical aid answered by the Council for Medical Schemes, they have a very comprehensive FAQ page.
The Council for Medical Schemes can’t just act freely, but acts in accordance with legislations drawn up by the Department of Health.
COMPLETE THIS FORM TO GET YOUR MEDICAL AID QUOTES!
NOTES:
Your medical aid quote will include options to suit your pocket. Please ensure that the cover you select is exactly what you need and that you understand exactly what insurance you are buying. Do not hesitate to ask questions about the medical aid or hospital cover you choose.