Circular 27 of 2026: Fostering independence and greater auditor inclusion in the audit of medical schemes

Section 36(2) of the Medical Schemes Act (131 of 1998) (MSA) states that: “The appointment of an auditor shall not take effect unless it has been approved by the Registrar, subject to such conditions as he or she may deem fit.”

The Registrar hereby sets out specific conditions in terms of the aforementioned Section 36(2) that are applicable to medical schemes and their audit committees as it pertains to the appointment of scheme auditors. These conditions will be integrated into the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) Audit Quality Indicators (AQIs) and are effective for the appointment of auditors for assurance engagements for financial years ending on or after 31 December 2028.

Please click here to access the addendum relating to comments received during the stakeholder consultations.

Download the full Circular here.