All contribution increases are deferred from 1 January 2026 to 1 April 2026, saving members R1.5 billion, or around R1,100 per membership, the group said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discovery Health Medical Scheme said that a family of four on Classic Comprehensive will save more than R5,100 thanks to the postponement of increases. A family of three on Classic Saver will save over R2,000.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It said the deferral is possible thanks to the Scheme\u2019s solvency position, which is projected to remain well-above 30% – above the minimum required of 25%.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This strength is driven by the better-than-expected claims experience and returns on Scheme Investments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis strategic use of excess solvency enables the Scheme to offer members meaningful financial relief without compromising its long-term sustainability,\u201d said Ron Whelan, CEO of Discovery Health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cContribution increases remain accurately priced, in line with medical inflation, ensuring affordability and long-term stability.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, Discovery noted that medical inflation continues to outpace CPI, which is driven by healthcare utilisation due to ageing populations, and the increasing availability of and cost of advanced medical treatments. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although the cost of healthcare services is expected to rise in line with CPI, utilisation of healthcare services is expected to drive an additional 3% to 4% increase in claims paid by the scheme. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cMedical inflation is a global challenge affecting all health systems – not just medical schemes in South Africa,\u201d said Whelan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On top of the fee increases, the scheme also introduced two new significant enhancements for 2026. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Smart Saver Series<\/strong> \u2013 A new range of plans for young families’ health and financial needs. Within the new Smart Saver series, two plan options are available: Classic Smart Saver and Essential Smart Saver.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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- Enhanced Personal Health Fund Benefits<\/strong> – Adult members accumulate funds into their Personal Health Fund by completing \u2018next best actions\u2019 in their Personal Health Pathways, which can be used to finance day-to-day benefits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Not the only one <\/h2>\n\n\n
- Enhanced Personal Health Fund Benefits<\/strong> – Adult members accumulate funds into their Personal Health Fund by completing \u2018next best actions\u2019 in their Personal Health Pathways, which can be used to finance day-to-day benefits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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