Bonitas Member Magazine B-Living Issue 4 | Page 22

Make your medical aid
work for you
For a lot of people, this seems to be a struggle to do. Some complain that their benefits don’t last
longer or they never know which doctor is registered, etc. We have compiled a few tips to help you
and make your benefits last longer.
Find a GP on the network
This is an invaluable tool to make your benefits last longer. Network doctors can’t charge
you more than a specific amount. Bonitas Medical Fund has the largest network of GPs in
South Africa – with over 5 500 doctors.
Register all chronic diseases
If you’re on regular medication to treat a chronic illness, you could qualify for chronic
medication benefits, which will be paid from the risk portion of your medical aid and not
your medical savings account.
Use formulary meds
All medical schemes have a list of medication they cover, called a formulary. Avoid
co-payments and out-of-pocket expenses by ensuring that your doctor uses medication
listed on your plan’s formulary. Also use a Designated Service Provider to stretch your
benefits.
Managed care benefits
Preventative care benefits, which are paid from the risk portion of your medical scheme
and not from your savings account, e.g. oncology, HIV and diabetes management
programmes.
Make use of preferred providers
Medical schemes often have providers that are contracted to them. Members are then
given better rates for specific benefits. For example, Bonitas has contracted the services of
DENIS for dental benefits.
Ask your pharmacist
They too can provide sound medical advice on problems such as rashes, colds or illnesses
that are not severe. Buy over-the-counter medicine to treat less serious ailments and
consider using generic medicine, which is cheaper and effective.
Page 21
B-Living Issue 4, 2017