November is ideal time to switch medical aid schemes

Tasleem Gierdien

Tasleem Gierdien

5 November 2025 | 7:33

As medical aid service providers ready to increase contributions in 2026, many consumers consider switching.

November is ideal time to switch medical aid schemes

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Medical schemes have begun announcing their contribution increases for 2026, averaging just under 10%, although the exact rise will depend on each specific plan.

This means medical aid members can expect to pay more for their health coverage next year, with increases once again outpacing inflation.

So far, Discovery Health Medical Scheme is the only provider to announce a deferred contribution increase, from 1 April 2026. The scheme can delay the hike thanks to its strong solvency position, which is projected to remain well above 30%.

Neesa Moodley, Finance Editor at Daily Maverick, has been tracking the latest announcements from major schemes like Discovery, Momentum, Fedhealth, and Bonitas.

"Each medical aid scheme has different options depending on income levels and levels of cover to suit how much you pay. Unfortunately, the more you pay, the more you get."

If you’re unhappy with your current medical aid scheme, now is the perfect time to review your options and ensure you’re getting the best value for your healthcare needs and budget.

Switching to a more affordable medical aid plan can only be done during a specific window to avoid penalties, provided you give your current provider at least 30 days’ notice. It’s also important to make sure your new cover begins immediately after your old one ends, so you don’t experience a coverage gap.

The ideal time to make the switch is now until 1 December, the latest date to give notice without incurring penalties such as waiting three months before the new medical aid becomes effective; however, this is at the discretion of the medical scheme.

For example, you could notify your current medical aid now that your membership will end on 31 December and inform your new provider that your cover will start from 1 January.

If you require assistance to see which medical aid fits your budget and needs, consult a medical schemes broker - their services are free.

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