30 Years of Loyalty means nothing when you really need help

My parents have been paying into Bankmed since 1992—over 30 years of consistent contributions with barely any claims. Now that they’re retired and finally in need of real support, Bankmed has shown exactly how little they value their members.

Recently, my mother had to undergo major dental work due to medical necessity—not vanity. Her jaw had partially collapsed and dentures were not an option. After nearly a year of struggling to eat, losing weight, and living in discomfort, implants were the only viable solution. The procedure has dramatically improved her ability to eat and function normally again.

Bankmed, however, refused to cover the R19,000 laboratory costs—despite the clear medical need that was motivated by her dentist, and despite decades of premiums paid with almost no return. This wasn’t an optional or cosmetic procedure. It was essential to her health and quality of life.

My parents are pensioners. The majority of their limited income still goes to this scheme, yet when they needed real help, they were left to fend for themselves. Bankmed has chosen bureaucracy over basic human decency.

This experience makes it clear: Bankmed will gladly take your money for decades, but don’t expect meaningful support when it counts. It’s a disgrace, and a harsh reminder that loyalty means absolutely nothing to this scheme.

I would strongly urge anyone considering Bankmed to think carefully. The support you may assume will be there in your time of need may never come.