Incorrect Dependant Join Date and Waiting Period

I am extremely disappointed with my experience as a new member of Medshield Medical Scheme. When I app**** for cover via the web application, I ensured that I included my son’s details. However, due to what appears to have been a system error, his information was not captured. I immediately raised the issue with my broker, who advised me to add him manually as a beneficiary.

Instead of correcting the issue promptly and fairly, Medshield processed his application with a join date of 1 July, a full month after mine, and imposed a 3-month waiting period—despite the fact that this delay was caused by their own system or processing error. I followed their instructions, paid his contributions, and submitted a request to backdate his membership to 1 June (to align with mine) and to waive the waiting period.

After an unreasonably long turnaround time, I received confirmation that his join date had been backdated—but to my disbelief, the 3-month waiting period was still app****. This makes absolutely no sense. As a mother, it is unfathomable to me that I would be covered by medical aid while my child is not, especially when the original error was not mine.

This entire experience has left me feeling disillusioned and anxious about the kind of service and urgency I could expect in the event of a medical emergency. If such indifference and inefficiency is the standard, I am seriously considering cancelling my membership altogether.

Medshield’s handling of this matter has been deeply disappointing, and I hope they reflect on the importance of compassion and accountability when it comes to people’s health and families.