FIA and CMS to discuss remuneration of healthcare brokers

Following a request from the Financial Intermediaries Association of Southern Africa (FIA), the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has agreed to extend the deadline for comments on its document regarding healthcare intermediaries’ remuneration.

The FIA, which represents the majority of healthcare intermediaries in South Africa, says it appreciates the CMS’ willingness to extend the original deadline for comments to 6 February 2009.

Linza van Aswegen (pictured), Chair of the FIA’s Executive Health Committee, says the CMS has also accepted the FIA’s invitation to participate in a workshop in which ideas will be shared and various proposals around intermediary remuneration discussed. The workshop is scheduled for November.

“The healthcare intermediary offers an invaluable service to consumers who intend to purchase or review their medical cover. However, any decision relating to one’s health should only ever be taken after seeking a qualified opinion from a responsible professional. Selecting the most appropriate and suitable medical scheme cover is a pivotal decision which should be made in consultation with a knowledgeable healthcare intermediary,” says van Aswegen.

The role of the healthcare intermediary has become ever more important especially given the increasing complexity of the healthcare and medical scheme environment; frequent changes to benefit structures, and the regular entrance of new products to the market.

Says Ben Rossouw (pictured), CEO of the FIA: “Offering support which equips our members to deliver a professional, meaningful service to consumers is a priority for the FIA. We are committed to partnering with the CMS to define the future role of healthcare intermediaries in South Africa and look forward to engaging with the Council on this matter.”