Business Day reports that, while 2026 medical scheme contribution increases will remain mostly single digit, the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF) warns that the sector’s stability is artificial, as schemes increasingly rely on reserves to contain costs. Therefore, the BHF is requesting Government to grant medical schemes an exemption to negotiate tariffs collectively as the current fragmented negotiation process leads to inefficiencies, duplication, and inconsistent pricing.
Collective bargaining would improve transparency, promote value-based care and create market discipline. The BHF also urges urgent reform of Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) and approval of Low-Cost Benefit Options (LCBOs), noting that these outdated rules hinder affordability. Allowing LCBOs and updated PMBs could expand private cover to millions without new legislation.