Dis-Chem Money Making Scheme

On 10 December 2020 I became very ill with, according to my knowledge (I am a Registered Nurse specialized in PHC and manage a large facility as the Operational Manager), COVID19 symptoms. I phoned my doctor and was informed to first get tested for COVID19 before I can have a physical consultation. The same goes for two other GP's that I contacted in Melkbosstrand.

Both Ampath and Pathcare wouldn't test me without a referral from a medical practitioner. I was then informed about Dis-Chem Table Bay Mall which do testing by means of a drive through test station. Upon registration I had to state why I need a COVID19 test done. One of the reasons that I could choose was that I was referred, but none other that fit my reason for being tested. I explained my reason and was advised to choose "for travelling". Which I then did. I got a visitors number and went the next morning. I had to pay R850 for the test before being tested. I did test positive. I was informed that is my own responsibility to claim this back from my medical aid and that Dis-Chem isn't liable for the claim. When I then send the claim to my medical aid I was sent from pillar to post until I was informed that the tariff code on the receipt is wrong and the claim cannot be processed. I was told that the service provider must issue a rectified receipt. I contacted Dis-Chem. Here I walked into a wall... Firstly I phoned. My calls weren't answered. I then sent an email, two by now, to the customer service manager or manager, Jacques Oppelt. He just didn't answer and a month later still didn't respond. I then drove to Dis-Chem and was referred to the Clinic Sister and Pharmacy staff. They tried to assist and were very friendly and helpful. After much debate I realized that I had to have a referral otherwise the medical aid won't pay the bill and once the invoice was issued it can't be changed. My understanding is that Dis-Chem line the customers up for the drive-thru testing and are collecting hundreds, if not thousands, of 850 rands. They don't clearly state before the tests are done and you are not referred by a doctor it wont be paid by the medical aid. When the customers start complaining they avoid you and give a very vague answer/explanation. I feel that Dis-Chem has been doing COVID19 testing under false pretension and running a money making scheme and flooding the laboratories just to make money. Patients are being referred for a reason and not being tested for every citizen becoming paranoid...