Cents and sensibility: How to stretch your benefits

July is National Savings Month. It’s the perfect time to review your spending habits and see where small adjustments can make a big difference. While most people think of savings in terms of bank accounts and budgets, there’s another place to look: your medical aid.

At Medihelp, we believe financial wellness and physical wellness go hand in hand. Knowing how to make smart choices around your healthcare can help you avoid unnecessary expenses, stretch your benefits, and stay healthier in the long run.

Here are eight practical ways to make every rand count.

1. Use network providers whenever possible

Medical schemes negotiate discounted rates with doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. By choosing a provider in your plan’s network, you avoid out-of-pocket charges and co-payments that quickly add up.

Not sure who’s in your network? Check out our provider search or log in to the Member Zone.

2. Plan ahead to avoid higher costs

Emergencies can’t always be avoided – but many healthcare expenses can. Schedule routine screenings and check-ups ahead of time, and make sure to pre-authorise planned procedures. This helps ensure cover and avoids penalties or rejected claims.

3. Know what your plan covers

You may have more benefits than you realise. From teeth cleaning to maternity benefits and chronic medicine cover, your plan is designed to support your health through every life stage. Take time to explore your plan’s benefits and limits – you might spot opportunities to use it more wisely.

4. Submit claims and documentation on time

Don’t lose out on refunds you’re entitled to. Medihelp has a four-month claims window from the date of service. Late submissions may not be reimbursed, so send your claims requests immediately when you’ve paid up front. It’s easy – do it via the Member Zone or on the Medihelp app.

5. Think preventive, not reactive

It’s cheaper to stay healthy than to treat illness. Flu vaccines, regular blood pressure checks, and healthier lifestyle choices can reduce long-term healthcare costs, not to mention improve your quality of life.

6. Consider combining medical aid with gap cover

Even with a comprehensive plan, there can still be shortfalls between what a provider charges and what your scheme pays. Gap cover helps you avoid dipping into your savings during times of stress, like hospital admissions or major procedures.

7. Use the Member Zone

From benefit checks to claims tracking, the Member Zone helps you stay in control. You can also submit certain requests online, like travel notifications and chronic medicine applications – no phone calls or paper forms needed. You can even manage enquiries fully online.

8. Save smart with your savings account

If your plan includes a medical savings account, use it wisely. By using network providers and designated service providers (DSPs), getting pre-authorisation where needed, and checking what’s covered before paying out of pocket, you can avoid unnecessary costs. This means your savings account lasts longer. And if there’s money left at the end of the year, it carries over to the next year and earns interest.

Small steps, smart choices

Medical aid is an investment in your future. This Savings Month, we encourage you to think beyond contributions and look at how you’re using your benefits every day. A little planning and awareness can help you avoid costly mistakes and save more.