Ask the Doctor
Have a question for the doctor ? Email us at askthedoctor @ bonitas . co . za and your question could feature in the next issue of B-Living .
Hello Doctor I want to go for a dental check-up but would like to avoid out-of-pocket charges . Does Bonitas have a list of specific dentists I need to make use of ? If so , where can I find this list ? Simphiwe
Hi Simphiwe To avoid unexpected payments , we recommend choosing a dental healthcare professional who is part of the DENIS Dental Network . These providers will not charge you more than the Bonitas tariffs for conservative dental treatment . This means that if you have the benefits available for the treatment , you will not have to pay any money out of your own pocket .
Conservative dentistry services include dental check-ups , fillings , extractions , scale and polish treatments ( cleaning ), dental X-rays , as well as preventative treatment for younger members , i . e ., fissure sealants and fluoride treatment .
To access the list go to the DENIS website , www . denis . co . za and click on “ Find a Network Provider ” to search for practices by suburb . Alternatively , you can call the contact centre on 0860 336 346 for assistance in finding a network provider near you .
Hi doc I ' ve been experiencing difficulty sleeping and often feel fatigued during the day . Before I resort to sleeping pills , is there anything I can do to improve my sleep quality and overall energy levels ? Patience
Hi Patience Improving sleep quality and energy levels involves adopting healthy sleep habits . To enhance your sleep , try maintaining a consistent sleep schedule . Create a relaxing bedtime routine and ensure a conducive sleep environment with a comfortable mattress and a calm room . Avoid caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime , engage in regular physical activity ( but not too close to bedtime ) and limit screen time to minimise the impact of blue light on sleep . In addition , consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or meditation to reduce presleep stress .
However , if you continue to experience sleep difficulties for extended periods , it ' s essential to seek guidance from a healthcare professional .
They can help identify any underlying issues and provide personalised advice to address your specific sleep concerns effectively . Remember that prioritising sleep is vital for overall well-being and a restful night ' s sleep can significantly improve your quality of life .
Dear Doctor I ' ve been dealing with a lot of stress and anxiety lately due to work and personal reasons . Are there any practices you can recommend to help me cope with stress better and does Bonitas provide any support for mental health ? Maureen
Dear Maureen Managing stress and promoting mental well-being is essential for one ’ s overall health . To help you cope with stress , try mindfulness meditation for anxiety reduction , deep breathing exercises to calm the nervous system and yoga for overall well-being . Additionally , spending time in nature , engaging in hobbies and seeking social support can help manage stress . Remember to limit media exposure and prioritise self-care activities like reading , taking a bath or listening to music to recharge your energy .
If you find that stress is significantly affecting your daily life , consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional who can provide personalised strategies for you to cope with stress more effectively . Bonitas offers a mental health programme for members on the BonComprehensive , BonClassic , Standard and Standard Select options who suffer from mental health conditions such as depression , anxiety , post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD ) and alcohol abuse . To find out more about the mental health programme , simply call 0860 106 155 .
As a Bonitas member , you also have access to advanced mental health support through Panda , a groundbreaking mental health and wellness mobile app . With Panda , you ’ ll be able to :
• Engage in the Bamboo Forest , which offers interactive , audio-only sessions with peers and mental health experts
• Learn new skills through assignments and videos to help you live a more fulfilled life
• Track your mental health progress to measure how you are feeling
• Get text-based chat support from an accredited wellness counsellor
• Book one-on-one virtual consultations with accredited and registered counsellors , social workers , psychologists , and other mental health professionals
6 Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 3 | 2023