One of the primary hurdles freelancers and artists face is managing the cost of healthcare amidst their fluctuating income. Unlike salaried employees who receive a consistent paycheck, freelancers' earnings can vary greatly depending on the availability of work and timely client payments. This unpredictability makes it challenging to commit to regular monthly payments for medical aid, as any delay or non-payment from clients can disrupt their financial stability and lead to the cancellation of their coverage. Reinstating medical aid after a lapse is not only costly but also complicated, exacerbating their struggle to maintain continuous healthcare access.
This financial instability often results in freelancers and artists opting for minimal healthcare coverage or, in some cases, forgoing medical aid altogether, leaving them vulnerable during illness or emergencies.
The importance of medical aid for freelancers
Says Koena Molekoa, Senior Manager: Growth at Medihelp Medical Scheme, “Despite the challenges, having medical aid is vital. The immediate concern is the financial protection it offers against unexpected medical expenses. Even minor health issues can quickly escalate into significant financial burdens, with costs for doctor's visits, medication, and treatments adding up. For more serious conditions or emergencies, the financial impact can be catastrophic, potentially leading to debt or inadequate care.”
Without medical aid, freelancers may face longer recovery times, which can compromise their ability to work and earn an income. Prolonged absences from work lead to missed opportunities, delayed projects, and a potential loss of clients. “The stress of managing both health issues and financial strain can also negatively affect their mental well-being, further impacting their productivity and quality of life,” Molekoa adds.
On the other hand, having medical aid provides crucial financial protection against high healthcare costs. It ensures that freelancers do not face overwhelming medical bills and allows them to focus on their work and personal life without the constant worry of unexpected expenses. “Additionally, many medical aid plans offer preventive care services, such as annual check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations, which can help maintain long-term health and reduce future healthcare costs.”
Solutions and strategies
To address these challenges, there are several strategies freelancers and artists can employ to manage their healthcare needs effectively. “Medical schemes, including Medihelp, offer a range of plans with varying levels of coverage, allowing freelancers to choose options that fit their budget. For those with limited resources, starting with a basic plan that covers essential services like hospitalisation and emergency care can provide critical protection at a lower cost. More comprehensive plans are available for those who can afford higher premiums and need extensive coverage,” Molekoa says.
“Medihelp offers a diverse range of plans designed to meet different needs and budgets. For example, the MedVital plan provides essential cover for hospitalisation and emergency care, while the MedPrime plan offers a broader range of services with special family rates. The MedAdd plan, a savings account plan, allows for flexibility in managing healthcare expenses while maintaining coverage for unforeseen emergencies. Additionally, Medihelp provides cost-saving options, such as network alternatives, which can help reduce monthly membership fees.”
To ensure continuous coverage, freelancers and artists should prioritise medical aid as a non-negotiable expense. Setting aside a portion of income during more stable months can create a financial buffer for leaner periods, helping maintain at least basic coverage. Freelancers can also benefit from preventive care programmes that help reduce out-of-pocket expenses and support overall health.
“At Medihelp, we recognise the unique needs of freelancers and offers tools like the Medihelp app and Member Zone for managing benefits conveniently. Our monthly Thrive! newsletter provides valuable advice on maximising benefits and managing healthcare expenses. Additionally, partnering with accredited financial advisers can help freelancers navigate the complexities of medical aid and find plans that best suit their needs.”
Education and awareness
Increasing awareness about the importance of medical aid is crucial for freelancers. Targeted education campaigns, workshops, and webinars can bridge the knowledge gap and provide valuable information on healthcare options. Sharing real-life case studies and testimonials can make the message more relatable and urgent.
Collaboration with industry associations, creative hubs, and freelancing platforms can enhance outreach and education efforts. “Our consumer education content, available through various channels, aims to empower members with knowledge about leading healthier lifestyles and making informed decisions about their medical aid cover.”
Future outlook
Looking ahead, the rise of digital health platforms and telemedicine offers promising solutions for freelancers. These technologies provide greater flexibility and access to healthcare services, enabling remote consultations, prescriptions, and health monitoring. “Customisable medical aid plans and an increased focus on preventive care and wellness programmes are also expected to improve healthcare access for freelancers,” Molekoa says.
For freelancers and artists, securing healthcare coverage is essential for both health and financial stability. Even a basic plan is better than none, and proactive steps to secure coverage can prevent significant future challenges. To explore your options and find the best plan for your needs, visit Medihelp.
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