Medical cover does not have to break your bank: The Sapphire Option is there for peace of mind

We understand that times are tough in our current economic climate and that daily and monthly expenses are taking their toll. Medical cover should not put unnecessary stress on your pockets. Instead, you should have peace of mind knowing you have medical cover when you need it.

The Sapphire Option is perfect in this regard. Here's why:

• 100% subsidy: Government employees can qualify for a 100% subsidy on the Sapphire Option should they meet certain criteria. Find out from your employer/HR practitioner to see if you qualify. Having a 100% subsidy means your contributions are covered 100% by your employer as a benefit of service giving you one less bill to worry about.
• Day-to-day cover: You have out-of-hospital benefits, such as visits to the doctor, dentist and optometrist.
• Hospital cover: You are covered at state/public facilities.
• Full cover: Your day-to-day and hospital care can be covered in full provided you use the GEMS network providers, designated service providers and stick to the option's rules.
• Maternity cover at private facilities: The cover also includes access to the GEMS maternity programme with three gynaecologist visits per beneficiary per pregnancy, monthly calcium and iron supplements for pregnant beneficiaries and amniocentesis (amniotic fluid test for abnormalities) during pregnancy, where indicated.
• Specialist visits: You can visit specialists provided you obtain preauthorisation from your GEMS Network Family Practitioner.
• Disease management programmes: Access to specific managed care programmes to assist you in managing a chronic illness or disease such as HIV/AIDS and Cancer.
• Yearly preventative care screenings: Including mammograms, pap smears, and influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations, if you qualify for this in line with our managed care rules.
• A workplace exercise programme: Access to GEMS Fitness to help you stay healthy and fit.

While the Sapphire Option is an entry-level option, it offers the security of medical cover and the comfort of low or no contributions.