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Stay ahead with our latest insights and proven strategies
Learn about affordable telehealth consultations in South Africa. Discover plan options, monthly prices, and expert advice for families and professionals.
The rise of telehealth has enabled South Africans to consult healthcare professionals remotely, using digital platforms to discuss symptoms, get medical guidance, and receive scripts - without time-consuming clinic visits. This approach supports busy professionals, families with young children, and retirees, ensuring medical advice is affordable and more accessible, even outside of metropolitan areas.
Telehealth consultations involve real-time audio or video conversations with registered healthcare practitioners. These virtual sessions cover initial diagnosis, ongoing management of chronic illnesses, prescription renewals, and, in some cases, mental health support. For South Africans, this method dramatically reduces barriers to essential guidance by minimising travel, saving costs, and offering flexible appointment times.
Insight: Many South Africans can now resolve minor illnesses, request repeat scripts, or get quick health guidance - all without leaving home or work, provided they have a smartphone or computer and an internet connection.
Many affordable health insurance plans, including those from Affinity Health, now include telehealth consultations in their day-to-day benefits. Whether you select a Day-to-Day, Combined, or Innovator plan, telehealth typically covers:
Plan premiums vary, with day-to-day cover options starting from around current published premiums per month for adults on certain plans; telehealth access is included in this cost. Review latest premium rates to compare your best fit.
To make the most of your cover, check for plans that include unlimited or capped telehealth sessions, and consider your family’s likely need for on-demand versus in-person visits.
Telehealth access is typically available on a range of health plans from Affinity Health, not just for adults but also for children and seniors. Most consultations are suitable for non-emergency situations such as mild infections, prescription updates, advice about chronic disease management, and mental wellness. For emergencies or referrals that need in-person attention, your healthcare practitioner will direct you to the appropriate facility or recommend a network provider.
| Plan Type | Age Group | Telehealth Benefit | Monthly Premium Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior Plan | 0-17 | Included | From current published premiums |
| Standard Adult | 18-54 | Included | From current published premiums |
| Senior Plan | 55+ | Included | From current published premiums |
For more details on these plans and their full range of benefits, visit the Affinity Health Day-to-Day Cover page. Some Combined and Innovator plans also feature telehealth as part of their offering, allowing you to blend everyday care with hospital protection for greater peace of mind.
To locate physical clinics or healthcare providers for needs that telehealth cannot address, the Affinity Health Provider Locator is available. This supports continuity of care and ensures your medical insurance benefits go further.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health or treatment.
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Get answers to common questions about Telehealth Virtual Care
Principal member premiums effective from 1 January 2026. Rates may vary by age and dependants.
| Plan | Principal premium | Main distinction | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day-to-Day Plan | From R929/per month | — | View plan |
| Hospital Plan | From R1 434/per month | — | View plan |
| Vital Select | From R289/per month | Limited hospital-care plan | View plan |
| Combined Plan | From R2 098/per month | — | View plan |
| Chrome | From R589/per month | Day-to-day plus accident hospitalisation | View plan |
| Bronze | From R759/per month | Broader day-to-day benefits | View plan |
| Delta Max | From R839/per month | Adds diagnostic procedures | View plan |
| Standard Day-to-Day | From R929/per month | Broader routine healthcare cover | View plan |
| Standard Hospital | From R1 438/per month | Hospital cover | View plan |
| Standard Combined | From R2 098/per month | Combined day-to-day and hospital | View plan |
Choose the option that fits your needs
We believe that quality healthcare should be accessible to everyone. Our plans are designed to be cost-effective, providing value without compromising on essential benefits.
Affinity Health members have access to the largest healthcare provider network in the country, including GP’s, Dentists and Hospitals.
From routine check-ups to emergency medical services, our plans encompass a wide spectrum of healthcare services, including chronic medication cover and emergency medical services.
Understanding that healthcare needs vary, we offer flexible plans that can be customised to suit your specific requirements.
Qualified and motivated service agents powered by a state-of-the-art call centre.
Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to assist with pre-authorisation, telehealth consultations and emergency services.