The Importance of Health Cover for South African Students

University and college life opens up new opportunities, but it also brings the need for dependable medical cover. For students, a combination health plan is a practical option, bringing together both day-to-day medical benefits and hospital cover in a single, cost-effective solution. This approach means you don't need to choose between regular care, like seeing a doctor for flu, and protection against major medical events such as accidents or surgery.

Why Combination Health Plans Suit Students

• Affordable monthly premiums aligned with student budgets
• Day-to-day access to GPs, basic medication, and dental care
• Hospitalisation cover in case of emergencies and planned procedures
• No need for multiple policies or managing separate providers

For students who are often far from home, especially those living in university residences or private accommodation, knowing that both everyday health needs and emergencies are covered brings peace of mind - and helps them focus on academic and social life.

What Is Included in a Combined Plan?

• Out-of-hospital care: Visits to doctors for minor illnesses, prescribed medication, limited blood tests, and basic dentistry
• In-hospital events: Accident and emergency admissions, ward and theatre costs, and procedures covered by the plan
• Virtual consultations: Speak to a healthcare professional for quick advice and guidance, saving time and transport costs

How Much Does a Student Plan Cost?

The Innovator Range offers a selection of six unique combination options, each balancing day-to-day and hospital features to suit different student needs - from those who want strong hospital cover to those who visit doctors often.

Evaluating Combination Health Plans: What Students Should Know

Key Considerations When Choosing a Plan

• Your health habits: Consider how often you see a doctor, need routine medicines, or may require dental check-ups.
• Lifestyle risks: Students involved in sports or outdoor activities may benefit from higher in-hospital limits.
• Network access: Ensure the plan has a wide network, especially in your campus city or where you live. You can find a provider easily online.

Benefit Highlights for Students

Most combination plans for students include core features such as:

• Acute GP consultations (often with visit caps)
• Basic dentistry (one annual check-up, emergency extractions)
• Optometry (limited cover for eye tests and basic spectacles)
• Hospitalisation for accident and sudden illness
• Emergency medical response included for covered events

Leveraging Virtual Healthcare Consultations

Combination plans often include access to healthcare practitioners over the phone for advice on minor illnesses or medication questions. This is especially useful when off-campus, during exam times, or when transport is a challenge - making sure your studies are not disrupted by health issues.

Managing Health Wisely on a Student Budget

• Create a simple annual health plan and set reminders for preventive checks
• Use after-hours virtual consultations to address health issues quickly
• Weigh co-payments versus monthly premium savings when selecting plan options

Remember, a combination health plan not only supports your physical health but gives parents peace of mind as students transition to independent living.

Sources

• Affinity Health - Combined Plan Information
• Affinity Health - Innovator Range for Adults (18-54)
• Affinity Health - Plan Premiums and Benefits
• South African Government: Healthcare Services