PMBs (Prescribed Minimum Benefits) are a set of minimum healthcare services that medical schemes in South Africa are legally required to cover. These benefits are defined by the government and ensure that all medical scheme members have access to essential health services, regardless of their specific medical plan. PMBs include a wide range of conditions, treatments, and services, such as:
The aim of PMBs is to protect members from financial hardship due to high medical costs, ensuring that they receive necessary medical treatment without being charged excessive out-of-pocket expenses. All medical schemes must cover these benefits, even for members on lower-cost plans, providing a safety net for essential healthcare needs.