Circular 21 of 2026: Evaluation of Contribution Increase Assumptions by Medical Schemes for the 2026 Financial Year

This Circular provides an evaluation of industry cost increase assumptions submitted by medical schemes for the 2026 financial year as provided in the benefit review submissions. The purpose of providing this information is to increase transparency of the schemes’ pricing decisions.

Since 2010, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) embarked on a process of stringent review of medical schemes’ contribution and cost increases in order to limit the transfer of inappropriate cost increases to beneficiaries.