The total contributions came to R107.4 billion, of which R93.6 billion went to the benefits payout. The total benefits paid per beneficiary per month increased from R856.6 in 2010 to R923.7 in 2011.
In light of this report, Bestmed Medical Scheme has undertaken to encourage people to adopt preventative health care measures to help them save costs in the long run, while helping medical schemes remain sustainable. In 2012, 65 389 Bestmed members were treated in hospitals and the benefits payout amounted to R878 708 870.17. The member average age of those admitted in hospitals was 44 years.
"Most health care claims were resultant from manageable and preventable illness, such as stress-related and chronic illnesses - including diabetes as well as hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. The admission report shows a total of 1023 female patients who were treated for Diabetes Mellitus 2 in hospitals and some were admitted repeatedly as a number of admissions totals 2060. The most common factors that contributes to this type of diabetes and other lifestyle-related diseases, are diet related as well as lack of regular physical activity," said Dr Elsabe Hammann of Bestmed.
To demonstrate its commitment to preventative health care, Bestmed recently announced its sport sponsorship programme, which includes athletics and cycling.
Bestmed also unveiled the members of its three cycling teams, who will participate in most of the on- and off-road races this year. In addition, the group announced its sponsorship of the University of Pretoria's athletics team and JL van Zyl's appointment as brand ambassador.
Bestmed's three cycling teams comprise the ladies professional, the mountain bike and social teams, with close to 60 riders. The teams have participated in various cycling events in the past three months, such as The Cape Argus, The Epic race and Tour de Boland and 18 riders from these teams will participate in the forthcoming MTN Panorama Tour at the end of April in Mpumalanga.
According to Alan Fritz, Bestmed's executive head, the group selected athletics and cycling as these are activities that are accessible to everyone - young and old, as well as family units. "We believe that through these initiatives, people will be encouraged to opt for healthier and more active living. We take our wellness pillars, namely Be Active, Be Safe, Be Nutri-Wise and Be Happy, very seriously and will continue to educate our members and non-members to adopt these pillars as a guide to a long, healthy life."
Fritz added, "When people begin living healthily at a young age, it becomes a way of life and reduces chances of being hospitalised and ultimately reduces the cost of medical expenses."
