An unexpected trip to the doctor can set you back R400 or more, and that’s not even including medication. With medical health insurance, you have cover but you often have to pay out of pocket and claim back after the fact, meaning you have to make sure that you have the funds available before you go. That’s why Oneplan Health Insurance created a policy that pays you before you see your doctor. Here’s how it works.
The Rising Cost of Private Healthcare
We all know that private healthcare in South Africa doesn’t come cheap. A short 15-minute consultation can cost around R400, and with medication, the bill can easily reach R1000.
And let’s be honest, who has that kind of money just lying around?
Many South Africans are forced to wait until payday to get medical help or put their medical bills on credit. Unfortunately, medical debt is one of the leading causes of bankruptcy, leaving families in financial distress.
Public Healthcare vs. Private Care
Of course, government hospitals and public clinics exist, and some are well-run and staffed with caring professionals. But the truth is, many are under-resourced and overcrowded, struggling to manage the daily influx of patients.
That’s why so many people turn to private healthcare for quality, reliable service – but it often comes at a cost few can afford.
“I Can’t Afford Medical Aid”
Medical aid is often viewed as a luxury rather than a necessity. The high monthly costs make it unaffordable for many households. Even basic hospital plans can cost thousands of rands per month and still might not cover every expense.
So, what’s the alternative?
Related: 3 reasons why our Oneplan Blue Plan is both budget-savvy and benefit bliss!
This Is Where Medical Health Insurance Comes In
Medical Health insurance is a type of short-term insurance that provides cover for specific medical events or claims, with set payout limits that keep it affordable.
Unlike medical aid, which must cover actual hospital rates and procedures (often unpredictable and high), medical health insurance has fixed benefit amounts, meaning you’ll always know what’s covered and how much you’ll receive.
If you already have medical aid, that’s great, but even then, medical health insurance complements it perfectly. For example, if you’re on a hospital plan, Oneplan’s cover can help you pay for everyday doctor visits and routine care.
Learn more: What is covered in health insurance?
Oneplan Health Insurance Pays You Before You See the Doctor
Here’s where Oneplan stands out: we front you with cash before your appointment, so you don’t have to stress about upfront costs.
Using your Oneplan Claim Card (which works like a debit card), you can preload funds for doctor visits directly through the Oneplan App or by calling the Oneplan team. Then, simply swipe your card at the doctor’s rooms – it’s that simple.
How It Works
If you’re sick with the flu, for instance (you’ve got a fever, no appetite, and nothing’s helping) you’ll likely need to see a doctor. But that visit could cost R1000 or more.
With Oneplan, you can:
- Log into the app and load a claim.
- Funds are transferred to your Oneplan Claim Card instantly.
- Swipe your card at the doctor’s office to cover your visit.
Even Oneplan’s most basic plan, starting from R250 per month, gives you R370 per doctor visit and R170 for prescribed medication, offering real value when you need it most.
Can You See Any Doctor?
Absolutely. Oneplan doesn’t restrict you to a specific network of doctors. You can visit any registered medical practitioner, dentist, or optometrist of your choice, because we believe in giving you the freedom to choose your care.
Discover: 4 Tips for Choosing the Best Family Doctor Plus How You Can Afford It
Cover Beyond the Doctor’s Room
Oneplan doesn’t just cover GP visits. You can also get cover for:
- Dentists
- Optometrists
- Specialist visits
- Day-to-day medical care
And, from our Core Plan up, you also start getting in-hospital and casualty benefits too. That’s what makes Oneplan’s health insurance so versatile and accessible.
Learn more: A step-by-step guide to understanding health insurance plans
Ready to Learn More?
Want to understand how Oneplan can fit into your life and budget? Get a no-obligation quote or explore your options on our website to find out all you need to know about medical health insurance.
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