Bonitas wields the Stick

I recently complained about Bonitas about the amount that gets refunded when one pays the doctor directly. The med aid punished me for not using a doctor who is contracted in their network. I understand that they want to negotiate the best rate so hurts them less. In my case the closest contracted in rheumatologist is about 25 km away. Being a retired person, I have to manage my expenses. So, for me to visit a contracted doctor, I have incur travel expenses and after due consideration , I choose to go to a doctor who is 5 minutes away from my home. I hope the Council of Medical Aids hears my story as well as that of many consumers who suffer the same punishment from their medical aids. In my case, I paid the Doc 900 and submitted my claim to med aid. After much complaining, I finally manage to get a reason why they did not refund me 618.40 as per the scheme rate. They took off 40% of this rate because I used the services of a non contracted in doctor! Where is the freedom of choice? If the med aid wants to force me to use a contracted in doctor, then they must provide me with a doctor who consults in my area. I know med aids cover their tracks by having all these terms and conditions. This is grossly unfair! If I were to be admitted to hospital, will I be subjected to the same 40% penalty? Bonitas forces me to use Pharmacy Direct for my meds or else I will face penalties again. If I had to go to my local pharmacy, I would have received my meds immediately. Day 3 into the new month, I am without meds to control high blood pressure. Waiting for delivery of meds! Please , do not give so much power to med aids. Protect the consumer.