Winter is nearly behind us and I trust you have all remained healthy and are eagerly awaiting the onset of spring . With the arrival of this new season , let ’ s follow nature ’ s cue and emerge from our winter slumber and seek out new beginnings . It ’ s a great time to add more physical activity into our lives and to start spring cleaning our homes . The physical and mental benefits of an active lifestyle and decluttered space are well known . You can read more about these from pages 7 to 12 .
Recently , in partnership with the Gift of the Givers , we assisted Kalafong Hospital in Pretoria find a solution to the critical shortage of clean water , which drastically impacted patient care . With Kalafong Hospital in need of urgent water intervention , we launched a borehole project . The borehole currently delivers 8 000 litres of water per hour to the hospital and has already made a huge difference to the lives of patients and healthcare workers . After all , clean water is life and clean water is health . Read more about this initiative on pages 17 and 18 .
Something to take note of is the increased cases of mpox in South Africa , as reported by the National Department of Health a ( DoH ) and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases ( NICD ). The Border Management Authority has implemented screening processes for travellers entering the country at all ports of entry . With an influx of information regarding mpox in the news , we have put together key information about this viral illness and the current outbreak to help keep you informed . Find out everything you need to know on pages 15 and 16 .
I ’ m excited about a new programme we recently launched in partnership with Back Wellbeing , for BonCap members . The Back and Neck Pain Management programme is designed to assist individuals suffering from chronic back or neck pain . It uses a holistic approach , focusing on non-surgical , conservative treatment options , aimed at providing relief and improving the quality of life for registered members .
Find out more about this programme on pages 29 and 30 .
A topic that is still on everyone ’ s mind is the signing of the National Health Insurance ( NHI ) Bill . We address this topic on pages 19 and 20 and answer some of the most frequently asked questions . In short , the Act is a complex piece of legislation that still needs to be clarified . New reforms and regulations will also need to be introduced , which could take years . Our advice to you , our members : Remain calm , it is ‘ business as usual ’.
We are currently relooking at our plans for 2025 to see how we can improve our benefits , to give you , our members , even greater value for your money . We trust that you will all benefit from our improved products .
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Bonitas Member Magazine Issue 3 / 2024
I ’ d like to reassure you that we will continue to strive to deliver on our promise of being the ‘ Medical Aid for South Africa ’. Here ’ s to rejuvenation and good health , enjoy the warmer temperatures !
Lee