Becoming a Member

Who may apply for membership with BESTmed?

BESTmed is an “open” Scheme. This implies that anyone may apply for
membership, either as a corporate member (through an employer) or as
an individual member.

How do I apply for membership?

Complete a BESTmed 1 application form and enclose satisfactory proof of the following:

• age (identity document);
• income;
• your state of health and that of your dependants and;
• any medical information, diagnosis, care or treatment received within a period of 12 months prior to date of application;
• proof of previous membership (membership certificate) of another medical scheme;
• student registration certificate of any student dependant under the age of 26.

Corporate members:

If you apply as a corporate member (i.e. through your employer), please obtain a BESTmed 1 form from your personnel practitioner and return the completed form to him / her. The practitioner will send it to BESTmed.

Individual members:

If you apply as an individual, please contact BESTmed on +27 (0) 12 339 9800. A consultant will pay you a visit when and where it suits you to explain the different options and benefits to you so that you can make an informed choice. You can also click on BESTmed Quote and fill in the form.

When will I receive my member card?

Depending on the information that you supplied, your application is registered and your card sent within three to five days. Please note: State Department members will only receive their member cards after BESTmed had received their first member fees.

What are prescribed minimum benefits?

Prescribed minimum benefits refer to health services specified by the Minister of Health in clause 67(1) (g) of the Act. The member qualifies for benefits in a state hospital, to the level and extent of prescribed minimum benefits with no co-payments, waiting periods, limits, and exclusions.

Who is allowed to use my member card?

You as principal member and your registered dependants. The use of a member card by any person other than the member or his / her registered dependants, with the knowledge or consent of the member or his / her dependants, is not permitted and shall be construed as an abuse of the privileges of your membership of BESTmed.