SAMWUMED is on a drive to ensure that its members keep up to date with their premiums in order to guarantee payment of their medical care.
Nomathamsanqa (Thami) Mpumlwana, Head of Premium and Membership explained that all monthly contribution payments to the Scheme have to be made not later than six days after the due date taking into consideration the Medical Scheme’s Act (Act 131 of 1998) as well as SAMWUMED’s Scheme Rules. Failure to adhere to this rule could lead to suspension or even termination of the membership”.
Although medical aid payments are made by employer organisations, Ms Mpumlwana stressed that it was still the responsibility of the member to ensure that their premiums were paid on a monthly basis, so as not to jeopardise their SAMWUMED membership.
By enforcing this rule, SAMWUMED is complying with the Act, and also ensuring its long term financial sustainability.
However, in the interest of members, the Scheme has put in place processes and procedures to govern the suspension and termination of members. They include: direct communication with both employer organisations and the respective members prior to drastic steps being taken.
