SAMWUMED keeps its focus on providing progressive care for 2010

SAMWUMED, the largest national medical scheme for local government employees, has confirmed that the contribution cost for members will rise by an average of 11% in 2010, a significant decrease from 2009.

The Council of Medical Schemes gave the green light for SAMWUMED’s 2010 benefits and contributions earlier this month.

The Scheme has continued to show steady growth despite the recession and currently covers more than 30 000 members and their families.

Since the Scheme’s inception in 1952, SAMWUMED’s vision has been to provide progressive primary healthcare services for its members.

“Through prudent planning and benefit management, we have not only succeeded in keeping our benefit plans stable during difficult times but we have also been able to add to our 2010 product offering. SAMWUMED’s benefit plan and contribution methodology is probably most closely aligned to the planned NHI model.”, says Mr. Neil Nair, SAMWUMED Fund Officer.

A new medication benefit category, the Primary Healthcare Benefit will provide a safety net for members to ensure that they have access to extended cover after their acute medication limits have been depleted.

The Scheme’s two benefit plans include generous day-to-day care for a range of chronic conditions and comprehensive hospital benefits. Members can use the doctor of their choice and have access to pharmacies through a network that allows for easy access across the country and ensures that members are not exposed to exorbitant medication levies.

According to a benchmarking report published by independent actuarial consultants, Fifth Quadrant, SAMWUMED’s administration costs are amongst the lowest in the healthcare industry. This means that the Scheme manages its benefit payouts carefully to ensure that it stays in line with the contributions received from members.