Understanding Combined Health Insurance for Everyday and Major Events

For South Africans, striking the right balance between everyday healthcare needs and cover in the event of hospitalisation is essential. A combined plan integrates both routine medical services and hospital benefits, helping you manage medical expenses efficiently while safeguarding against costly emergencies. Affinity Health has developed plan options that serve the needs of young professionals, families raising children, and retirees seeking affordable protection from both predictable and unexpected health expenses.

What does combined health cover include?

• Day-to-day benefits for general practitioner consultations, basic optometry, acute medicines, and primary dentistry.
• Hospital benefits covering in-patient admissions, surgical procedures, theatre and ward fees, and approved professional services required during hospital stays.
• Telephonic consultations with healthcare practitioners for advice and prescription support, bridging gaps when in-person consultations are not practical.

Who benefits from a combined plan?

• Young professionals prioritising predictable monthly budgeting and uninterrupted access to healthcare providers.
• Families wishing to avoid high out-of-pocket charges for GP visits, immunisations, and sudden hospital admissions.
• Older adults looking for regular consultation benefits alongside additional peace of mind for hospitalisation.

Typical benefit structure of an Affinity Health combined plan

Premiums for a combined plan are based on your age and family composition. For instance, individuals in the Standard range (18 to 54 years) can expect combined plan premiums starting from R1,236 for a principal member, with added amounts per spouse and dependent. You can view current details on the Affinity Health plan rates page.

Key internal links for discovering more

• Explore the Combined Plan for full benefit details.
• Understand hospital cover limits via the Hospital Plan information page.

Making the Most of Your Health Cover

A combined plan not only addresses potential medical emergencies but also supports preventive health through regular check-ups and prompt treatment of every day ailments. Here are ways to maximise your cover for optimal health and financial protection:

Tips for effective use

• Schedule regular general practitioner appointments for early intervention.
• Make use of telephonic consultations to reduce unnecessary in-person visits and support chronic conditions.
• Review annual benefit limits and plan ahead for known medical needs, such as dental check-ups or seasonal vaccines.
• Ensure all dependants are registered to enjoy family cover benefits for both outpatient and in-hospital events.

South African scenarios for combined health cover

• Young families often benefit from the predictability of affordable rates, especially with children requiring regular medical attention and protection from accident-related hospitalisations.
• Young adults entering the workforce find value in day-to-day cover to remain healthy and productive while having protection for potential hospital events.
• Retirees appreciate continued access to everyday care alongside comprehensive cover for unplanned hospital admissions.

Choosing the right plan for your needs

Affinity Health offers dedicated combined plan options for various age groups:

• For families with children under 18, review the Junior Combined Plan details.
• Adults aged 18-54 can compare options within the Standard Range.
• For those 55 and older, the Senior Combined Plan is specifically designed for retiree health cover needs.

Comparing costs and benefits

When evaluating plans, look closely at the following:

• Monthly premium relative to your household income.
• Annual visit and benefit limits for both day-to-day and hospital services.
• Provider access in your area - Affinity Health’s network spans nationwide, and location does not affect your premium.

To find a medical provider or hospital near you, use the convenient Affinity Health provider search tool online.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Combined Plan Information
• Affinity Health - Plan Rates
• Affinity Health - Junior Plan
• Department of Health South Africa
• Statistics South Africa - Health and Demographics