Why choose a combined health plan as your best option

A combined health plan brings together routine out-of-hospital benefits - like GP visits, basic dental care and acute medicines - with in-hospital protection for surgeries, admissions and theatre fees. For many South Africans, the best combined health plan balances predictable monthly costs with protection against large, unexpected hospital bills. Affinity Health designs plan options for young professionals, families with children and retirees who need dependable, budget-friendly cover.

Core advantages of combined health cover

• All-in-one protection: Routine care and in-hospital events are managed under a single plan structure.
• Predictable budgeting: Consolidated premiums help households plan monthly expenses without frequent surprise payments.
• Practical access: Use private clinician networks and provider locations for faster care when needed.

What typical combined plans include

• Day-to-day benefits: GP consultations, basic dentistry, optometry access and acute medicines.
• Hospital benefits: In-hospital admissions, theatre and ward fees, approved clinician fees and in-hospital scans and procedures.
• Support services: Remote consultations for immediate clinical advice and Emergency Medical Response when required.

Benefit comparison at a glance

Affinity Health offers combined plan options across several plan groups to match different life stages. Learn more about combined plan structures on the Combined Plan page. If you want to understand the day-to-day component in depth, visit the Day-to-Day Cover page for full benefit descriptions.

How the best combined health plan suits different South African households

• Young professionals: Prioritise GP access and remote consultations with moderate hospital protection for peace of mind.
• Families with children: Emphasise strong day-to-day benefits for frequent paediatric care plus hospital cover for unexpected injuries.
• Retirees: Choose plans with higher in-hospital limits to manage major procedures while keeping routine costs predictable.

Ready to compare specific plan options? Get a quote to see plan choices and monthly premiums that match your household composition and age profile.

How to choose the best combined health plan for your needs

Selecting the best combined health plan involves assessing routine needs, potential in-hospital risk and your monthly budget. Follow a simple process to compare plan options and make an informed decision.

Step-by-step selection guide

• Inventory routine care: Estimate GP visits, dental check-ups and eyewear or medicines per year.
• Assess in-hospital exposure: Consider any planned procedures or activities that increase the risk of admissions.
• Compare plan options: Look at day-to-day limits, in-hospital limits, waiting periods and any excess terms.
• Calculate monthly budget: Balance premium level against likely out-of-pocket costs for routine care and emergencies.

Practical comparisons and plan selection tips

• Young families often prioritise higher day-to-day benefits; older adults often prioritise higher hospital limits.
• Avoid plans with low day-to-day limits if you expect frequent GP visits - the best combined health plan reduces skipped care.
• Confirm waiting periods for specific benefits like maternity or certain procedures before committing.

Affinity Health publishes plan groups including Junior, Senior, Standard Range and Innovator options. Explore the Innovator Range and learn which option fits your lifestyle. To review in-hospital details, visit the Hospital Plan page.

Practical South African scenarios (no personal examples)

• Households with young children will often choose a combined plan with strong day-to-day benefits to cover frequent GP visits and child healthcare needs.
• Working adults who travel for work may prioritise wide provider access and remote consultations for quick clinical advice.

Next steps - compare and apply

Compare plans side-by-side, request a personalised quote and review plan documents carefully for benefit limits and waiting periods. Get a quote online to see monthly premiums for your household and join now when you find the right balance between routine care and in-hospital protection.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Combined Plan details
• Affinity Health - Day-to-Day Cover information
• National Department of Health South Africa - Health guidance
• Statistics South Africa - Health and demographic indicators