Why a combined plan can be the best option for students

A combined health plan bundles day-to-day benefits (GP visits, basic dentistry, optometry network access and acute medicines) with in-hospital protection for surgery, theatre and ward costs. For students balancing study, part-time work and tight budgets, a combined plan provides predictable monthly payments while reducing the risk of large, unexpected hospital bills. Choosing the best combined health plan for students means prioritising the benefits you use most and keeping monthly costs manageable.

Key student needs a combined plan should meet

• Accessible consultations for common illnesses and injuries during term time.
• Cost-effective optical and basic dental benefits for routine care.
• In-hospital protection for accidents or urgent procedures without catastrophic out-of-pocket costs.
• Simple claim processes and clear definitions of covered in-hospital events.

How Affinity Health supports students

Affinity Health offers combined plan options aimed at individuals in the Standard Range and Innovator range, which cover working-age adults including students over 18. These plan options balance routine day-to-day benefits with hospital protection so students can access private consultations and in-hospital treatment when needed. Learn more about the structure of combined offerings on the Combined Plan page.

Practical benefit breakdown for student lifestyles

• Day-to-day: GP consultations for acute illness, basic dental check-ups and optometry network options.
• Hospital: In-hospital admissions, theatre and ward fees, and fees for approved clinical procedures during admission.
• Support: 24/7 access to telephonic advice and Emergency Medical Response coordination where provided by the plan administrator.

Compare the day-to-day features side-by-side on the Day-to-Day Cover page to align benefit levels with your expected usage. Getting a quote and comparing plan options helps you identify the best combined health plan for students with similar needs.

Choosing the best combined plan: step-by-step guide for students

Follow these practical steps to decide which combined plan suits your student life and budget.

Step 1 - Map expected healthcare use

• Estimate GP visits per semester, expected dental or optical needs, and any planned procedures.
• Consider part-time work risks (higher sport or transport exposure) that increase the chance of in-hospital events.

Step 2 - Compare plan options and provider access

Students benefit from clear provider access and quick approvals. Check where you can receive care using the provider directory and hospital list to avoid delays: use the Find a Provider and Find a Hospital Provider tools to confirm local clinicians and facilities.

Step 3 - Evaluate exclusions, waiting periods and excesses

Read plan documents carefully to confirm waiting periods for certain benefits and how excesses affect monthly premiums and out-of-pocket cost at time of claim. Choose an excess level that keeps monthly payments within your student budget while protecting you from major bills.

Step 4 - Compare Innovator options for added features

If you want more combination options, review the Innovator Range which offers multiple combined plan levels for individuals. This can be useful for students who want different balances of day-to-day and hospital benefits.

Typical student scenarios

• Full-time student away from home: Prioritise strong hospital access in the region where you study and good day-to-day cover for routine illnesses.
• Part-time student with campus health access: Choose a combined plan with reasonable day-to-day benefits and solid hospital protection for unexpected surgery.

Ready to compare plans? Get a quote online, compare combined plan options and join now to secure cover before the academic term peaks. Use the Combined Plan page to start a quote and understand which benefit mix suits your needs.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Combined Plan details
• Affinity Health - Day-to-Day Cover
• Affinity Health - Innovator Range information
• National Department of Health South Africa - Official guidance