KM
Kagiso M

1 reviews | Active since Dec 2021

07 Apr 2025, 06:49

Natural birth and a birthing center

My family and I have been bestmed members since 2013. I have been on pace 1 since joining and adding my children as I have them. I have paid hundreds of rands to this medical aid and we as a family do not claim much. I am pregnant and giving birth naturally at a birthing center and bestmed send me an e-mail saying that they will only cover the first 12 hours I am at the facility, not 24 hours or atleast 1 night but 12 hours. Should I be in labour and also be worried that I am running out of time? I am so hurt and confused. I have been so loyal to this medical aid and I cannot believe that they treat pregnant women like this. We all know that natural birth is cheaper than a C-section but they still want to reduce my benefits. What should happen to me if I give birth after being at the facility for 11 hours? This is insane, I am extremely disappointed and discouraged. I can’t keep paying a medical aid that does not benefit me

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Replies (1)
Bestmed Medical Scheme
Bestmed Medical Scheme's reply08 Apr 2025, 08:37
Official
Dear  Kagiso K

 Thank you for reaching out and sharing your concerns with us. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced.

Kindly note that, as per the rules of the scheme, a midwife's in-hospital services are covered for a maximum of 12 hours. In the event of complications where the gynaecologist takes over, the authorization will be adjusted accordingly. It is important to ensure that labour has indeed commenced before rushing to the hospital.

 The scheme provides funding for up to 3 days for a normal delivery and 4 days for a C-section.

We hope this clarifies the situation

 Best regards
 GM