Unprofessional service at GEMS

<p>I consulted with a service provider (Goldings Orthopaedic) in April 2016 and a claim of R3192.00 submitted to Gems accordingly. Whay followed thereafter is pathetic service to say the least. Two months later the service provider contacted me indicating that no payment has been made. Upon enquiry GEMS said the claim was rejected because there was no motivation attached and this was forwarded on 18 July 2016. Nothing happened despite GEMS acknowledging receipt of the motivation. I then wrote a letter of complain on 22/09/2016 and Gems responded on 30/09/16 by saying that the account was referred to the relevant department for approval.</p> <p>Later on the service provider got some communication from GEMS that they will only pay au to a maximum of R2000.00 and the balance is for the client. I duly obliged and paid R1192.00. I have made numerous enquiries since then and everytime i get told that there is no feedback to date. I have since received a notice of demand for the full amount and further intention to institute legal action and listing me unless i pay within seven days.</p> <p>What frustrates the most is that with this poor service, GEMS has increased 2017 contributions by almost 15%. How is this justifiable given my circumstances. Now i have to look for R2000.00 to pay the supplier for a service rendered in April 2017. Surely this is ridiculous! Perhaps Gems's callous attitude is based on the fact that they are dealing with government employees and the subsequent threat that once you leave teh scheme you automatically forfeits your subsidy. Please GEMS, wake and respect your members.</p> <p> </p>