South Africa has over 40 medical schemes that are open to the public and around 120 private medical schemes totalling around 7 million beneficiaries. The total annual contribution to medical schemes is around R30-billion (according to the Council for Medical Schemes - 2006).

Take into account that South Africa has a population of more than 47 million people! Less than 15% of SA citizens belong to a medical scheme. So the question is, how do you choose a medical scheme or hospital plan, a specific option of the scheme, which benefits to include or exclude? In this ever-changing environment, one needs the services and advice of an independent intermediary.

Someone who doesn't only have the interests of a specific medical scheme at heart, but one who can guide you to ensure your needs is met. An organisation specialising in the healthcare industry should assist you with the following:

• choosing the "most suitable" medical aid option in the market
• investigating a number of medical schemes and options
• providing pro-active advice on your present medical aid
• assist you with claims and query resolution