Why Employees Benefit from Combination Health Cover

Maintaining a healthy and productive workforce is vital for South African businesses of all sizes. Employees face a range of healthcare needs - from day-to-day doctor visits and minor procedures, to unexpected hospitalisation following serious illness or accidents. A combination health plan provides practical coverage for both routine healthcare and in-hospital events, ensuring peace of mind for your entire team.

Understanding Combination Health Plans

Combination health plans merge day-to-day cover (such as general practitioner consultations, basic dentistry, and prescriptions) with hospital benefits for admission, surgery, and emergencies. For employers, this creates a balanced solution that addresses employee healthcare access, retention, and reduces absenteeism due to untreated conditions.

• Outpatient services: Consultations, pathology, radiology, and chronic medication support for regular health management.
• In-hospital protection: Admission cover for illness, accidents, surgery, and specialist-referred investigations.
• Telephonic healthcare consultations: Remote GP access and mental health guidance to support employee wellbeing.

Key Advantages for Employers and Employees

• Lower healthcare costs per employee compared with most traditional options.
• Increased productivity through better employee health and easier access to medical care.
• Attracts top talent and fosters a supportive workplace culture.

How Group Combination Cover Works

Affinity Health offers Group Cover with multiple plan options to suit companies of all sizes and industries. These plans feature a mix of day-to-day and in-hospital benefits, supporting a diverse range of employee demographics.

To learn more about the specific plan options and benefits, visit the Group Cover information page.

Affordability and Structured Benefits

Employers can select the combination of benefits best matched to their workforce and budget. Premiums are fixed by plan and number of employees, making costs predictable regardless of company location. For the latest pricing, see the current premium schedule.

Enhancing Wellness and Attendance in the Workplace

A workforce with reliable health coverage experiences less stress over healthcare costs, is less likely to forego care, and recovers more quickly after illness or injury. This translates to reduced absenteeism and higher morale. Many group plans also provide preventive care options such as screenings, immunisations, and chronic condition management, further supporting employee wellbeing.

Provider Access and Support Networks

All group combination plans connect employees with Affinity Health’s extensive network of healthcare providers nationwide. Employees can easily find a nearby provider with the provider search tool. For in-hospital needs, use the dedicated hospital network locator to confirm facility access.

Making the Best Choice for Your Organisation

1. Evaluate the range of available plan options and compare benefits.
2. Estimate healthcare priorities by considering employee demographics-young professionals, families, or older workers may have different requirements.
3. Balance benefit levels with your organisation’s financial allocations, using predictable monthly premiums.
4. Encourage employee feedback during plan selection to optimise wellness support.

Long-Term Value and Sustainability

Combination cover can deliver ongoing value by minimising serious health events through better access to preventive care. These plans also assist businesses in regulatory and corporate responsibility compliance related to employee wellbeing.

Real-World Scenarios for South African Employers

• A retail company uses group cover to help staff manage everyday illness, seek rapid GP care, and protect against hospitalisation costs.
• A manufacturing plant provides combination benefits for routine check-ups and emergency hospital care in the event of workplace accidents.
• A professional services firm improves retention by offering health cover as a competitive employment benefit.

Further Resources

• For broader plan options for individuals or families, review the Combined Plan for retail consumers.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Group Combination Cover
• Affinity Health - Policy Rates
• Affinity Health - Provider Finder
• Statistics South Africa: Health Statistics
• World Health Organization: South Africa Country Health Profile
• South African Department of Health