Why couples choose a combination health plan

A combination health plan brings together day-to-day benefits for routine care and hospital benefits for in-patient events into one budget-friendly solution. For couples this means predictable monthly costs, access to private healthcare practitioners when needed, and financial protection for surgery or hospital admissions. Couples with young families, dual-income households, and retirees can all benefit from a combined approach that reflects their healthcare priorities.

Core components of a combined plan

• Day-to-day: GP consultations, basic dentistry, optometry network access and acute medicine for everyday health needs.
• Hospital: In-hospital admissions, theatre and ward fees, approved in-hospital clinician fees and in-hospital procedures.
• Support services: Remote consultations and emergency medical response for urgent scenarios.

How to assess what couples need

• Compare expected routine use: Count annual GP visits, dental check-ups and eyewear needs.
• Estimate risk exposure: Factor in lifestyle, travel, and any planned procedures.
• Decide on excess levels and benefit emphasis: Prioritise day-to-day access or higher in-hospital limits depending on likely expenses.

Benefit breakdown - what couples should compare

• Visit allowances and co-payments for GP and dental care.
• Annual limits and sub-limits for day-to-day benefits.
• Hospital cover limits, definitions of in-hospital services and inclusion of theatre fees.
• Waiting periods for specific benefits and maternity considerations if relevant.

Quick comparison table

Affinity Health offers combination options for working-age adults and couples within applicable plan ranges. If you want to compare benefits side-by-side, use the Combined Plan page to review plan inclusions and to get a personalised quote. Ready to compare plans? Get a quote now through the Combined Plan page and view detailed benefit tables.

Choosing the best level for your couple

Selecting the right combination health plan depends on age, health needs, planned procedures and monthly budget. Younger couples often prioritise stronger day-to-day cover to support family planning and child wellness, while older couples may prioritise higher hospital limits. Consider these practical steps when deciding.

Step-by-step selection guide

• Map routine use: Record expected GP, dental and optical visits per year for both partners.
• Assess potential hospital risks: Consider occupational risks, travel or planned surgeries.
• Compare excess and out-of-pocket exposure: Higher excess can lower premiums but increases potential cash payments at time of claim.
• Review waiting periods: Note any waiting periods for maternity or specialised procedures.

South African couple-focused use cases

• Young professional couples: Emphasise day-to-day access for quick GP visits and virtual consultations while retaining solid hospital protection.
• Couples approaching retirement: Increase hospital limits to protect against higher likelihood of in-patient procedures.
• Dual-income parents: Balanced combined options keep routine costs predictable while protecting against unexpected admissions.

Practical comparison tips

• Request sample benefit schedules to compare visit limits and sub-limits for each partner.
• Check waiting periods and any exclusions for procedures relevant to you both.
• Use annualised budgeting: estimate typical out-of-pocket spend under different plan levels to choose the best value.

Next steps and how to join

Compare options on the Combined Plan page, request a quote and apply online. Affinity Health’s plans are designed to be accessible and budget-friendly for South Africans - get a quote, compare plan options, and join now to start protecting your household against large hospital bills while keeping day-to-day care within reach.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Combined Plan
• Affinity Health - Day-to-Day Cover
• National Department of Health - South Africa
• Statistics South Africa - Health indicators