Protecting the GEMS brand

GEMS urges all members and potential members to be vigilant of the many scams that circulate within the healthcare industry and not to become a victim of fraud/scams when applying for GEMS membership.

It has come to our attention that fraudulent individuals go to Government departments posing as GEMS marketers and use the GEMS brand fraudulently in marketing presentations. These individuals inform potential members that they have to take up an insurance policy before they can join GEMS.

Calculations are done by these individuals for potential members, and potential members are advised that an additional R200 fee will be added onto their monthly contributions. Upon completing an application form for membership, insurance forms are also included as "part of" the GEMS application form. The potential member's freedom of choice is now being restricted due to such acts. This also impacts the trust that our potential members will have with the Scheme.

This is an illegal, unauthorised and unethical practice, and is not sanctioned or approved by GEMS in any way. GEMS would never add any additional costs to what is shown on both the GEMS brochure and GEMS website, which can be accessed via www.gems.gov.za.

All Scheme stakeholders need to be on the lookout for any pay-out demands that might be made to our potential and existing members that is not associated with the Scheme, and must be directly reported to the Scheme.

For any fraud-related concerns, suspicions or tip-offs you can:
Call: GEMS anonymous toll-free Fraud Hotline on 0800 21 22 02;
Email: [email protected];
Fax: 086 726 1681; or
Post: The Fraud Service Manager, PO Box 21076, Valhalla 0137.

Potential members can visit the GEMS website via www.gems.gov.za and use the online calculator to get an estimation of their monthly contributions. They can also call the GEMS Call Centre on 0860 00 4367, email [email protected], SMS their PERSAL/PERSOL number to 083 450 4367, or visit one of GEMS Walk-in centres to be assisted by one of GEMS customer representatives.