Get back and neck
rehab with the DBC
Back and neck pain is very common. Four out of five people suffer from pain at least once
during their lives. As part of our managed care offering, the back and neck rehabilitation
programme assists members who suffer with chronic and debilitating back and neck pain.
How does the programme work?
Run in partnership with Documentation Based Care (DBC), this multidisciplinary programme
includes treatment from doctors, physiotherapists, and biokineticists to treat severe neck and
back pain. After an initial assessment, beneficiaries receive treatment twice a week for three
to six weeks. We cover the full cost of the programme.
Who can access this benefit?
This benefit is available to members identified by the beneficiary risk management team
and providers may contact us to register eligible beneficiaries. Members may also self-refer.
Identified or eligible members are then referred to the programme. This benefit is not available
to members on BonCap.
Where are DBC centres located?
There are currently 11 centres located across South Africa. DBC centres can be found in Durban,
Cape Town, Fourways, Kempton Park, Emahleni, Centurion, Pretoria, Rosebank, Secunda and
Sasolburg. Plans are in place to expand the network.
How effective is the treatment?
The DBC System was developed in Finland over the past 20 years and is used in 22 countries
worldwide with a success rate over 85%.
The treatment consists of active exercise with appropriate weights and motion. Guidance on
how to use the spine and lead a normal life is an important component of the treatment.
The exercises are targeted at the trunk muscles of the spine, helping to restore mobility and
control. Relaxation is an essential part of the programme. After the initial treatment, you
receive a home programme on how to maintain the results long term. The attending doctor
can follow your progress based on regular check-ups.
FACTS ABOUT BACK AND NECK PAIN
Back or neck pain is usually not caused by any
serious illness.
50% of people who get back or neck pain experience
recurrent pain within two years.
People who recover the fastest and cope the best are
those who stay active.
If the pain is prolonged or recurs often, exercise is highly
recommended for pain relief.
Page 16
Bonitas Member Magazine 2016 Issue 1