Why do I need gap cover for Oxygen Medical Aid?
- Oxygen medical aid sets out its standard medical tariffs annually.
- This is what it uses as a base rate for how much it pays when you submit a claim.
- Medical professionals, especially specialists, tend to charge a lot more.
- When it comes to hospitalization especially, the difference can be substantial.
- Gap cover pays that difference so you don’t have to.
When it comes to medical cost in South Africa, the gap between what medical aids pay and what members are actually charged has been steadily growing. Now, for day-to-day medical expenses this is not such a big deal. It becomes a big problem, however, when it comes to hospital stays.
A hospital stay is expensive and you are bound to need specialist assistance. This all comes at a premium if you want to get decent care. The problem is that the medical schemes like Oxygen medical aid have a set rate for every procedure.
So, if your doctor or hospital stay costs more than this, you are liable for the difference. You have to fill in the gap from your own pocket.
Which Gap Cover Should Oxygen Medical Aid Members Choose?
So, we need to have gap cover, but which plan do we go with? And, do we have to schlep through each company’s site to find the details we need? Who has the time for that anymore?
You will see all the major points of interest from each company, including what the premiums are, and be able to compare them. All of the major South African players are represented allowing you to get an overview of all your options.
You also get to see what the small differences in each plan are. This allows you to make an informed decision about which option suits you best.
Some Terms You Might Need to Know
Of course, these sites are simple to operate. They want to make it as easy as possible for you but there is always the chance that some jargon may slip in.
Here are some common terms that you might need to know about:
- Eligible child: These are all the children that will qualify for cover. These do not need to only be your biological children. You can cover your stepchildren, adopted children or any child that you are legally responsible for.
- Eligible spouse: This will be the primary member’s spouse. To qualify, the spouse must have been listed as a dependent on the main member’s medical aid. If they have their own medical aid, they are not eligible. Allowances are made for just one spouse under these policies.
- Medical scheme: The scheme has to have registered with the Registrar of Medical Schemes.
Most comparison sites, such as Hippo, will have a glossary that you can consult in need. Alternatively, looking at the FAQ section may provide the answers you are looking for.
Next step: Get a Zestlife quote for gap cover by completing and sending the form on this page