CMScript on Sexual Violence – Healthcare that stands with survivors
As part of our ongoing efforts to empower you with clear, accessible information, the CMS is releasing the latest CMScript on Sexual Violence. This edition contributes to the broader conversation by equipping members with knowledge on what sexual violence is, its wide-ranging health effects, and the medical care and support available under the Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs).
The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) reaffirms its commitment to a healthcare system that stands with all survivors of gender-based and sexual violence.
Why this CMScript matters
Statistics from the South African Police Service (SAPS) show that more than 13 000 sexual offences were reported between January and March 2025. This amounts to an average of 4 484 cases a month, or nearly 150 people experiencing sexual violence every single day. As alarming as these numbers are, they only tell part of the story, as many incidents are never reported, meaning the true extent is likely far higher.
Understanding Sexual Violence: Key Information You Should Know
Sexual violence includes any sexual act without consent. This takes many forms, including:
- Rape or sexual assault – Forcing someone into sexual activity without their agreement.
- Child sexual abuse or incest – Any sexual activity involving a child, including by a family member.
- Partner sexual assault – A current or former partner forcing or pressuring someone into sexual acts.
- Sexual exploitation – Using someone sexually for personal gain, money, or power.
- Unwanted sexual touching – Any sexual contact that happens without consent.
- Sexual harassment – Unwanted sexual comments, messages, or actions, in person or online.
- Voyeurism – Secretly watching someone in a private act without their permission.
- Public masturbation – Touching oneself sexually in public or in front of someone who did not consent.
- Indecent exposure – Showing private parts to others without their consent.
Effects of sexual violence on health
Sexual violence can affect survivors physically, emotionally, and psychologically, both immediately and over time.
Short-term effects may include:
- Shock, fear, anxiety, or confusion.
- Physical injuries and genital trauma or sexually transmitted infections.
- Unwanted pregnancy, miscarriage or unsafe abortion.
- Stress response symptoms such as stomach problems (nausea, cramps, or diarrhoea), headaches, fatigue and sleep disturbances.
Long-term effects may include:
- Post-traumatic stress (PTSD), depression or ongoing anxiety.
- Issues of low self-esteem and low self-worth.
- Eating disorders or dissociative disorders that may make a person feel disconnected from their thoughts, memories, feelings, surroundings, or identity.
- Difficulties with trust, intimacy, and sexual relationships.
- Substance or alcohol use
Supporting Survivors of Sexual Violence
The National Department of Health’s Sexual Assault Policy (2012) ensures that survivors of sexual violence are entitled to immediate, comprehensive, and free medical care. These services are also covered under the Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) (DTP code 237M).
The treatment component is defined as medical management and psychotherapy, which means all diagnosis, treatment, and care costs related to sexual abuse must be covered in full by medical schemes. This includes:
- Medical consultations and investigations
- Pregnancy, drug, and infection testing (including HIV)
- HIV, Hepatitis B, and Tetanus vaccinations
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV
- Emergency contraception
- Treatment for injuries and infections
- Termination of pregnancy (TOP), if chosen
- Counselling and psychotherapy
Support is also available through specialised units in public, private, non-governmental, and community-based facilities. Contact your medical scheme, visit your nearest clinic or hospital, or obtain a list of specialised rape centres here.
To honour the lived reality of survivors and the silence many are forced to carry, this edition of the CMScript adopts a blacked-out aesthetic. As we approach the 16 Days of Activism, we encourage all schemes, healthcare providers, and members to engage with the content, strengthen trauma-informed care, and help survivors receive compassionate and timely support.
Download the full CMScript here.
