Smaller medical schemes are offering consumers better value for money, but have not been as successful as some of the larger schemes in attracting new members, a study by wealth and financial advisory firm GTC has found. GTC (formerly known as Grant Thornton Capital) released its seventh annual medical aid survey on Wednesday. The study analysed the rates of 22 open medical schemes, as well as closed scheme Profmed, and a total of 144 plans that were categorised into 11 areas in accordance with the benefits offered. The survey made use of a micro rating system based on a plan’s competitiveness in relation to others in the same category, and included the company’s solvency. It also provided a standardised comparison and ranking of the choices available to consumers. These ratings were also based on the risk premiums, while the macro ratings focused on size, growth and financial stability of a company. Smaller schemes with fewer than 1-million members were ranked top of the crop.

Subscribe now to unlock this article.

Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).

There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.

Cancel anytime.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.