An Integrated Approach to Health Protection

For many South Africans, finding health cover that balances day-to-day needs with in-hospital events is a major priority. Combined medical insurance addresses this by including access to doctors, basic dentistry, optical care, and prescription medicines, alongside protection for emergencies, surgery, or extended hospital stays. Affinity Health’s combined plans were developed to bring private healthcare within reach for families, young professionals, and retirees across the country.

How Combined Medical Cover Works

Combined health cover merges two key benefit types:

• Day-to-Day Benefits: Includes GP consultations, acute medication, limited pathology, basic X-rays, and network optometry.
• Hospitalisation Benefits: Covers costs from accidents, surgical admissions, specialist-approved procedures, and pre-authorised ward/theatre fees.

By combining these elements, families no longer have to choose between everyday access and safeguarding against costly emergencies. Regular GP visits and important check-ups help prevent major problems, while unexpected in-hospital events don’t result in overwhelming financial stress.

Primary Benefits of Combined Health Insurance

• Predictable monthly costs by managing both routine and hospital risks under a single premium.
• Avoids gaps in coverage that often leave families exposed to out-of-pocket expenses.
• Facilitates healthier lifestyles with regular preventive care and rapid emergency response in critical moments.
• May reduce delays in accessing private facilities and necessary medical procedures.

According to recent national surveys, over 73% of South Africans worry about unforeseen medical bills disrupting their finances, and more than half delay doctor visits due to affordability. Integrated cover options help address these challenges by reducing extra payments and offering a broad basket of services at an accessible price point.

Plan Options and Age Groups

Affinity Health’s range covers different life stages: find Junior, Standard, Senior, or Innovator plan information according to your age or family’s needs.

What’s Typically Included?

• GP and nurse consultations, acute medicines, limited prescribed radiology and blood tests
• Basic dental and optometry for covered members
• In-hospital admissions including emergency medical response, theatre/ward fees, and pre-approved specialist-related costs
• Telephonic healthcare guidance, authorisation and advice

Who Should Consider Combined Cover?

Families, retirees, and professionals who are cost-conscious but want private care from both general practitioners and hospitals benefit most from an all-in-one approach. Combined plans minimise disruptions and give peace of mind by eliminating gaps in care.

Premium Examples and Budget Considerations

Monthly premiums for combined options are structured by age group and plan selection. As of 2024:

Provider Access and Private Healthcare Facilities

Affinity Health members enjoy wide-reaching access to private providers, ensuring fast appointments and shorter wait times. Use the tools to find a provider and identify the closest participating hospital or medical professional quickly.

Practical Tips for Getting the Most from Combined Cover

• Schedule routine check-ups with network providers to maximise day-to-day benefits.
• Familiarise yourself with the details of your plan’s hospitalisation process, including pre-authorisation for certain treatments.
• Keep emergency service contact details accessible and understand the requirements for accessing private hospital care.

For step-by-step guidance, review the detailed benefit comparisons for the Combined Plan or see how innovative options in the Innovator Range may meet your preferences.

Key Considerations Before You Choose

• Always review waiting periods and any service exclusions for new joiners.
• Check if your preferred general practitioner or hospital is on the approved provider list.
• Estimate your likely annual usage-routine doctor visits, planned dental/optical needs, and any foreseeable hospital admissions-to ensure your plan covers what truly matters to your household.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Combined Plan
• Affinity Health - Plan Rates (2024)
• Affinity Health - Junior Cover
• National Department of Health - South Africa
• Statistics South Africa - Household Healthcare Survey