What do PMBs cover for breast cancer?
Breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer globally, with 2.26 million new cases reported in 2020 alone. In South Africa, breast cancer accounted for 14.3% of all new cancer cases, making it the leading cause of cancer in both men and women. Breast cancer is a
#Pinktober: What do SA’s medical aids exclude when it comes to breast cancer treatment?
Dr. Toko Potelwa, an Executive Member for Member Protection at the Council for Medical Schemes in South Africa, joins Yolanda Maartens on Mid-Morning Magic this #Pinktober. They explore the typical coverage offered by medical aids for breast cancer, including common exclusions. Dr. Potelwa also highlights
CMS Annual Report 2023/24
The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has released its Annual Report for the 2023/24 financial year, showcasing the organisation's commitment to its vision, mission, and strategic objectives in a challenging macroeconomic environment. The CMS continues to play a pivotal role in regulating the private healthcare
CMScript 8 of 2024: Understanding and managing pain
Pain, both acute and chronic, impacts billions of people globally and is generally a primary reason for seeking healthcare. Essentially, pain involves a complex interaction among nerves, the spinal cord, and the brain. It is a significant public health issue regardless of its form or
Circular 40 of 2024: Agility Health MCO accreditation withdrawal
The Executive Committee Council, at a meeting held on 29 August 2024, resolved to withdraw the accreditation of Agility Health (Pty)(Ltd) as a managed care organisation in terms of Regulation 15C(2)(a) to the Medical Schemes Act, 1998 (Act No 131 of 1998) (“the Act”) from
CMScript 7 of 2024: Focus on Attempted Suicide
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to break the silence and raise awareness for those who are struggling. Help is available, and it is important to know where to find support and what care is covered under the Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs). Suicide is
CMScript 6 of 2024: Focus on Disclosures and waiting periods
This CMScript edition focuses on member rights and responsibilities regarding disclosure of medical information on membership applications and waiting periods for new members. It is important for members of medical schemes to be fully informed about their rights and responsibilities to ensure they can effectively utilise
Regulator places Sizwe Hosmed Medical Scheme under statutory management
By joint agreement, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has placed the Sizwe-Hosmed Medical Scheme under statutory management, in terms of Section 5A of the Financial Institutions (Protection of Funds) Act 28 of 2001 ("FI Act") Protection of Funds Act. The agreement by the Board of Trustees and
Farewell message from Dr Sipho Kabane
Dear Colleagues and Stakeholders, As I prepare to bid farewell to my role as the Registrar and Chief Executive of the Council for Medical Schemes, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and reflection. Since my appointment in February 2019, it has been an
Mental Illness Awareness Month
You are seen, and help is available. It is important to change how we see and talk about mental illness. When we openly discuss it, support those affected, and encourage them to seek help from professionals, we can make a big difference in our community’s mental