Making the Most of Medical Schemes

November 10 - South Africans are paying more for their medical scheme costs with every passing year.

Liberty Life Medical Scheme has offered consumers ideas on how to keep these costs down by using their policies wisely and making sound decisions.

The first important rule is to know exactly how the medical scheme works and what your benefits actually are.

Knowing these basic facts allows consumers to make better decisions.

Once the rules are clear, the next step is to find out how to save money with the medical scheme.

Many schemes have deals with health practitioners that will give better rates to members.

Discretion is the name of the game when it comes to making trips to the doctor. Consider whether the visit is absolutely necessary, or whether the same advice could have been received 'over the counter' at the neighbourhood pharmacy.

And while on the subject, generic drugs are always cheaper and are usually equivalent in quality and effectiveness to the prescribed medication.

If possible, avoid after hour visits to doctors as rates are always high.

Consumers should also be aware of how the doctor's fee structure works. This will avoid unpleasant surprises when a bill for R500 is sent simply for a quick peak in a child's ears.

There are ways to save money at certain doctors, such as paying upfront and then settling with the medical scheme.

DISCLAIMER: The information expressed in this article is to be used as a general guideline only. It should not be used in place of the advice of your healthcare provider or practitioner.