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Gems Medical Scheme Tariffs Spark Government Intervention

08 Jan 2026

Government has decided to intervene following the 9.8% tariff increase announced in 2025 by Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS). – Business Day (8 Jan 2026)
Officials will engage with the scheme’s Board of Trustees regarding the "unaffordable tariffs".
However, any adjustment to current tariffs must be approved by the Council for Medical Schemes.
GEMS serves only public servants and their dependents and Government pays up to two-thirds of employees' monthly costs.
The GEMS Board of trustees maintains that financial sustainability is the primary driver behind the rate hikes.

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