Should medical cover be a priority for the youth?

When we are young and healthy, we often feel immortal and less vulnerable to health and accident related disasters, as a result do not view health care insurance as an immediate necessity.

“Understandably, young adults are inclined to see cars, computers, gadgets and the latest cell phones as more attractive choices, confident that a medical aid plan is something they don’t need at this point in their lives,” says Dr James Arens, clinical operations executive at Pro Sano medical scheme. However, in his opinion, this view is a dangerous and short-sighted.

“Young people often think of health insurance as something only older people need, but that is a fallacy. It’s important for young adults to have such insurance too, as they are more at risk than they might realize,” he continues.

“Even when they’re fundamentally healthy, younger people are more likely to adopt risky lifestyle behaviours that could expose them to the trauma associated with motor vehicle accidents, as well as to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. One also needs to consider the health consequences of substance abuse, which is often common among the youth. Health care insurance is therefore a prudent investment in their health and future.”

In addition to these more serious scenarios, young people are not exempt from routine ailments such as colds and influenza. “It’s also in their best interest to look after their eyesight and their teeth from a young age on an ongoing basis.” continues Dr Arens. “Without a medical aid, eye care and dentistry can be very expensive.”

The 20s and 30s are usually the ages during which many people start families. “Not only is it advisable to have maternity benefits at this time, it’s important to consider the future health needs of the children,” he says. “A good medical plan will have positive spin-offs in this regard.”

He emphasizes that health screening in children is often neglected. “Ear, nose and throat infections are particularly common and may potentially lead to deafness if left undetected and unattended. It’s also important for children to have access to hearing and vision tests when they reach school-going age.”

So what does the average younger person need in respect of medical aid cover? Dr Arens recommends that they research the various options available and find the one that suits them – a plan that will cover most of their needs at a reasonable premium.

“If you’re a generally healthy single person or maybe have a small family, you could choose a lower-cost option that offers comprehensive hospital cover. While there will almost certainly be a limit, it should be high enough for most eventualities. In addition, there should be some GP, dental and eye care benefits.

These may well be less generous – but should be sufficient to take care of basic needs,” he concludes.