Bonitas is the latest medical aid provider that has published its 2025 premium increases and rates. And the increases are alligned with most other medical aids that have already published their rates for 2025. The group announced a weighted average increase of 10.2%, effective from 1 January 2025.
Bonitas’ New Pricing and Adjustments
Although Bonitas' overall increase stands at 10.2%, the actual premium hikes will differ depending on the plan. Notably, comprehensive plans will see the largest jump, with premiums increasing by nearly 15%.
Lee Callakoppen, Principal Officer of Bonitas Medical Fund, explained that the medical aid sector has faced numerous challenges over the past year, including the ongoing debate around the National Health Insurance (NHI), economic pressures, and strained reserves.
Despite these challenges, Bonitas has maintained a strong position, allocating over R1.4 billion back to members in recent years through benefit enhancements and controlled premium increases.
Callakoppen emphasized that the 2025 increase seeks to balance financial sustainability while adhering to regulatory guidelines. Bonitas has historically kept its premium hikes below the industry average, striving to maintain members' benefits without eroding them. The proposed changes have been submitted to the CMS for approval.
Additional Changes for 2025
Beyond the price increases, Bonitas has outlined several enhancements and additions to its 2025 plans:
Mental Health Support: In recognition of the link between chronic illnesses and mental health, Bonitas is introducing a mental health component within its GP network to enable early diagnosis and coordinated care through a multidisciplinary approach. Special focus will also be given to antenatal and postnatal depression.
Hearing Loss Management: Bonitas will offer free online hearing tests for all South Africans. Selected plans will also provide hearing aids and related audiology services.
Weight Management Programme: Led by registered biokineticists, this programme takes a holistic approach to weight loss, incorporating support from dieticians and psychologists (available on certain plans).
Female Health Programme: In collaboration with CareWorks, this programme is designed to address the health needs of women aged 18 and older, focusing on preventive care and early detection of women-specific conditions.
Enhanced Maternity Programme: This includes tailored support for high-risk pregnancies, ongoing postnatal care, and mental health follow-up services for mothers.
Geriatric Care (for members over 70): This initiative offers various screenings, chronic disease management, and fall-risk assessments to help seniors live independently.
Diabetic Retinopathy Screenings: These will be provided through a partnership with PPN.
Benefit Booster: Available on six plans, this benefit continues to provide members with additional funds for out-of-hospital expenses at no extra cost.
Blood Pressure Monitors: Provided to high-risk members with hypertension across selected plans every two years.
PET Scans: Bonitas has revised its PET scan benefits for 2025, offering up to two scans per family annually on certain plans. A dedicated network for PET scans is also being introduced to improve access and manage costs.
Expanded Access to Chronic Medication: Members on selected plans will have broader access to chronic medications.
Dental Tariffs: These will increase by 5.9% across all plans.
New Online Tool: Bonitas is introducing a “Quick Find” feature on its website, allowing members to access important information about their medical aid without needing to contact support.
Diabetes Management Program: This program includes two consultations with a Diabetes Nurse Educator to provide specialized care and advice.
Here is a list of the Bonitas Options and their pricing for reference:
The medical aid year runs from January to December of each year. Members are encouraged to look through the medical aid options and to exercise their option changes by 1 December for effect 1 January the following year.
Should you need advice or assistance with your healthcare requirements, please reach out to us.
Source information taken from Businesstech. You can read it here
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