AGM QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
1. MEDICATION
Co-payments
A: The Scheme’s basket of medicines are reviewed every year. In order to avoid paying out of pocket, members are encouraged to choose generic medications over originals as their price is less expensive.
Optical Benefits
A: Yes the Scheme does each year. Optical benefits have been increased by 4.6% for 2021.
Chronic Medicines
A: The Scheme’s basket of medicines is reviewed and changed every year. To avoid paying out of pocket, members are encouraged to choose generic medicines over originals as they cost less. In cases where medicines have side effects, members are encouraged to contact their treating Doctor who will advise on alternative medicines.
Vitamins
A: The Scheme is taking note of the recommendations. They will be reviewed and considered for the 2021/22 benefit year.
Prescribed Medication
A: The basket of medicines is reviewed and changed every year. To avoid paying out of pocket, members are encouraged to choose generic medicines over originals as they are less costly.
2. HOSPITAL NETWORKS
A: For 2021, the Scheme is pleased to announce that it has a new network of hospitals that will allow members to have more choice when it comes to hospitals particularly in the Cape Metro area. Members can visit the Scheme website for a list of the hospitals.
3. NEW BENEFIT OPTION
A: All member suggestions are welcomed. This one will also be reviewed on its merit.
4. CUSTOMER SERVICE
A: The Scheme acknowledges difficulties experienced by our members, especially during the lock down where staff were working from home. The Scheme is committed to improving customer service. I.e. the Scheme is investing in a new Call centre Solution that includes the use of various telephonic platforms including: – SMS, USSD, WhatsApp & Self-help IVR.
Members will be advised as soon as it is operational.
A: The Scheme acknowledges difficulties experienced by our members, especially during the lock down where staff were working from home. The Scheme is committed to improving customer service. I.e. the Scheme is investing in a new Call centre Solution that includes the use of various telephonic platforms including: – SMS, USSD, WhatsApp & Self-help IVR.
Members will be advised as soon as it is operational.
5. COMMUNICATION & MARKETING
A: Due to Covid-19 pandemic there has been a need for more virtual meetings to protect members including pensioners. Once we are over the pandemic the Scheme will resume its normal face to face interactions with members including pensioners.
As at 31 January 2021, SAMWUMED’s total membership was 35 772. The breakdown is reflected below:
| Province | Members |
|---|---|
| Western Cape | 13 857 |
| Gauteng | 6 717 |
| Kwazulu-Natal | 2 885 |
| Eastern Cape | 2 845 |
| Free State | 2 700 |
| North West | 1 983 |
| Mpumalanga | 1 889 |
| Limpopo | 1 797 |
| Northern Cape | 1 099 |
| Total | 35 772 |
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A: Currently the Imbizo is an e-newsletter especially now in times of Covid-19 in order to protect our members and stakeholders alike.
A: No. The Scheme’s name remains SAMWUMED.
6. COMPLIANCE
A: The SAMWUMED AGM quorum is 30 members in good standing.
A: All members were sent the AGM documentation including invitations, notices and Annual Report through various means including the Scheme website, courier, smart SMS and USSD.
A: The suggestion is noted and will be considered in the future where email addresses are available.
7. GOVERNANCE
A: The Mitchell’s Plain facility is no longer functional. The property has been sold.
8. PENSIONER CONTRIBUTIONS
A: The suggestion is noted and its merit will be looked at by the Scheme.
