Issue link: https://www.hub.camaf.co.za/i/1512931
2024 FIRST CHOICE 05 What is a waiting period? In terms of the Medical Schemes Act, schemes may impose either a general waiting period, (while paying contributions) of 3 months (no claims paid unless Prescribed Minimum Benefits, where applicable) or a "condition-specific" waiting period of 12 months where you have not been a member of a registered medical aid for a period of 90 days prior to joining or a period of 24 months. Pregnancy will also be underwritten and a waiting period will be applied where you have not been a member of a registered medical aid for a period of 90 days prior to joining or a period of 24 months. What is the inception date? This is the date on which your membership commenced and contributions become payable. It is always the 1 st day of the month. How are benefits pro-rated? If you or any of your dependants join the scheme during a calendar year (not on 1st January) all benefits that have an overall annual benefit limit will be pro-rated accordingly in terms of the number of months you or your dependant is an active member. Pro-rating does not apply retrospectively if you resign from the scheme prior to 31 st December. What conditions apply to resigning my membership? • If you are an employee of a company, where it is a condition of employment that you are a member of CAMAF, you may not resign, unless you are resigning from the employer group • If you are eligible as a dependant to become a member of another scheme through your spouse, you may resign e.g., a female employee who marries may choose to join her husband's medical scheme. • One calendar month's written notice should be given. • Any outstanding debt due to the scheme at the time of resignation must be repaid. • Back dated resignation is not permitted. What happens if I retire? If you retire from your employer on reaching the age of 60 or earlier as a result of ill health or disability you have the right to remain a member of the scheme. Why should I belong to a medical scheme? In many cases it is a requirement by your employer. Your employer needs to know that you will be fully covered in the event of an unforeseen medical event. Risks present themselves on the road, through criminal activity and lifestyle accidents, despite being young. Insurance cover on material goods (e.g., cars, property) is never questioned in terms of whether it will be used or not – how much more should accidental personal mishap be provided for. BACK TO CONTENTS PAGE