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Discovery Health β€” Saver Series

Essential Delta Saver

About this plan

πŸ₯‡ Best suited for families wanting comprehensive cover with lower contributions through Delta networks.
Principal Member
From
R3,099
per month
Adult Dependant
From
R2,339
per month
Child Dependant
From
R1,243
per month

What's covered

Hospital cover
Savings account
Day-to-day
Chronic cover
Dental
Optical
Maternity
Mental health

Waiting periods

General
3 months
Pre-existing conditions
12 months

Essential Delta Saver

Essential Delta Saver

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Medical Aid Plan (2026)

  Overall, the Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Medical Aid Plan is a trustworthy and comprehensive medical aid plan that offers 24/7 medical emergency assistance and essential healthcare services for Family Members. The Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Medical Aid Plan starts from R3,099.  
πŸ”Ž Medical Aid PlanπŸ₯‡ Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver
🌎 International CoverR5 million
πŸ‘€ Main Member ContributionR3,099
πŸ‘₯ Adult Dependent ContributionR2,339
🍼 Child Dependent ContributionR1,243
πŸ” Gap Coverβœ… Yes
πŸ’™ Hospital CoverUnlimited
😎 Optometry BenefitNone
🦷 Dentistry BenefitIn-hospital
πŸ’Ά Medical Savings Accountβœ… Yes
    Discovery Saver Series for 2026

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver - 22 Key Point Quick Overview

  1. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Overview
  2. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Contributions and Medical Savings Account
  3. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Plan Benefits at a Glance
  4. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Benefits and Cover Comprehensive Breakdown
  5. βœ… Discovery Health WELLTH Fund
  6. βœ… Discovery Health WHO Outbreak Benefit
  7. βœ… Discovery Health Connected Care
  8. βœ… Discovery Health Hospital At Home
  9. βœ… Discovery Health Saver Day-to-Day Benefits
  10. βœ… Discovery Health Maternity and Early Childhood Benefit
  11. βœ… Discovery Health Chronic Benefits
  12. βœ… Discovery Health Care Programs
  13. βœ… Discovery Health Comprehensive Cancer Cover
  14. βœ… Discovery Health Hospital Benefit
  15. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Annual Limits
  16. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Cover for Day Surgery Network Procedures
  17. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Extra Benefits
  18. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Value-Added Offers
  19. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Exclusions and Waiting Periods
  20. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Plan vs Similar Plans from Other Medical Schemes
  21. βœ… Our Verdict on the Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver
  22. βœ… Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Frequently Asked Questions

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Overview

Essential Delta Overview   The Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver starts from R3,099 and is part of a series of comprehensive medical insurance plans offered by Discovery Health. Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver plan is a good option for those looking for affordable medical aid with a good level of coverage for essential healthcare services.   Gap Cover is available on the Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver, along with 24/7 medical emergency assistance. According to the Trust Index, Discovery Health has a trust rating of 4.8.   The Discovery Health Saver SeriesΒ  offers the following medical aid plans to choose from:   Reimaging your healthcare Essential Delta Core

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Contributions and Medical Savings Account

Essential Delta Saver Contributions

Saver plan contributions    
πŸ‘€ Main MemberπŸ‘₯ +1 Adult Dependent🍼 +1 Child Dependent
R3,099R2,339R1,243
 

Essential Delta Saver Medical Savings Account (MSA)

Personal Health Fund and Medical Savings Account    
πŸ‘€ Main MemberπŸ‘₯ +1 Adult Dependent🍼 +1 Child Dependent
R3,468R2,616R1,392
    Discovery Health Saver Contributions and Medical Savings Account

Discovery Health Essential Delta Plan Benefits at a Glance

 
β˜‘οΈ Day-to-Day Cover-
πŸŸ₯ Medical Savings Account (MSA) Discovery pay your day-to-day medical expenses, such as those for GP and specialist consultations, medicine (excluding registered chronic medicine), radiology and pathology, from the available money in your MSA. If you have money left over, this will carry over to the next year. You have the option for us to pay your claims from the MSA at either the DHR or at cost. If you have chosen to have your claims paid from the MSA at cost, we will automatically pay your claims that are more than the DHR. If you have chosen to have your claims paid from your MSA at the DHR, and you wish to have claims that are more than the DHR or benefit limits paid from the available money in your MSA, you can request a special payment from your MSA.
🟧 Day-to-Day Extender Benefit (DEB)The Day-to-Day Extender Benefit (DEB) extends your cover for essential healthcare services in the network daily.
β˜‘οΈ Hospital Cover-
🟨 Hospitals you may go toThe Delta Network’s private hospitals
🟩 A defined list of procedures in the Day Surgery NetworkPrivate facility for day surgery within the Delta Day Surgery Network
🟦 Cover for Healthcare Professionals in-hospitalCovered up to 100% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR)
 

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Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Benefits and Cover Comprehensive Breakdown

Emergency Cover

Smart series prescribed minimum benefits     In case of a traumatic incident or after a traumatic event, you can get help from a trained professional. Calling Emergency Assist will help you and your loved ones in need.Β  Furthermore, family members can get help after a traumatic event at any time. The survivors of gender-based violence can receive counseling and other support as part of this service.   Discovery Health Emergency Cover covers the following medical services:  
  • βœ…The emergency vehicle (or other medical transport).
  • βœ…The hospital’s account of the incident.
  • βœ…The observations of the physician who admitted you to the hospital.
  • βœ…The anesthesiologist.
  Any additional approved healthcare provider.  

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Prescribed Minimum Benefits

All medical schemes are required by the Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) provisions of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 and its Regulations to cover the costs associated with the diagnosis, treatment, and care of:  
  • βœ…A life-threatening medical condition.
  • βœ…A defined listing of 271 conditions.
  • βœ…A list of 27 chronic illnesses.
  To qualify for coverage, your medical condition must be on the Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) conditions list. Furthermore, the necessary treatment must correspond to the treatments listed in the benefits. In addition, you are required to utilize designated service providers (DSPs) within the Discovery Health network.   Once your condition has stabilized, you will be transferred to a hospital or other service providers in the Discovery Health network, if necessary, according to the scheme’s rules. Discovery Health will cover up to 80% of the Discovery Health Rate if you do not use a DSP (DHR). Your responsibility will be the difference between what Discovery Health will pay and the actual cost of your treatment.   Furthermore, Discovery Health will pay according to your plan’s benefits if these criteria are unmet.  

Screening and Prevention

This benefit covers certain diagnostic procedures that detect early warning signs of serious diseases. The Discovery Health wellness providers cover a variety of screening tests, including blood glucose, cholesterol, HIV, Pap smear or HPV test for cervical screening, mammograms or ultrasounds, and prostate screenings.   After all your membership members have completed their health check, you can access additional screening and preventive healthcare services through the Personal Health Fund.   The Discovery Health Screening and Prevention covers the following:  
  • βœ…Screening for kids will assess the child’s growth and development, including weight, height and body mass index measurements, blood pressure, and more.
  • βœ…Screening for Adults includes blood pressure, blood glucose, HIV, and more. Discovery Health also covers mammograms, breast ultrasounds, pap smears, and more.
  Screening for Seniors (65>) includes risk screening assessments and referrals to Premier Plus GPs according to the screening results.  

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Essential Screening Smart series

Discovery Personal HealthΒ  Fund

The Personal Health Fund covers a comprehensive list of screening and prevention healthcare services to empower you to act based on your health requirements. This benefit is distinct from and in addition to the Screening and Prevention Benefit; it is available once per lifetime to all members and dependents who have completed their health checks.   Your Personal Health Fund can be used up to its maximum for screening and prevention services. However, the cover is subject to the Scheme’s clinical entry requirements, treatment protocols, and guidelines.     Personal Healthfund saver series     The Discovery Personal Health Fund for the Essential Delta Saver covers the following:  
🩺 General HealthYou can access screenings for vision, hearing, dental, and skin conditions as part of your primary care. Additionally, you are eligible for one GP screening consultation
🏈 Physical HealthDieticians, biokinetics, or physiotherapists are available for physical well-being evaluations.
🧠 Mental HealthYou have access to a mental health evaluation to promote mental health.
🚺 Women and Men’s HealthYou have access to various screening and prevention services for women and men. These include, for instance: Consultation with your doctor for gynecological, prostate, or cardiac issues Bone density analysis
🍼 Children’s HealthAs a member, you can take advantage of a wellness visit for your children, which includes assessments of their growth and developmental milestones performed by a professional such as an occupational therapist, speech therapist, or physiotherapist.
βœ… Medical Monitoring DevicesYou have access to medical monitoring devices that assist in measuring, for instance, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
  βœ… How can members get access to the Discovery Personal Health Fund? The Personal Health Fund is available for two benefit years after all beneficiaries over two complete an age-appropriate health check with a Wellness Network provider. Furthermore, the benefit is available to new members in the joining year and subsequent years.   βœ… Which limits apply to the Discovery Personal Health Fund? The benefit is available once per lifetime per beneficiary. Cover for eligible healthcare services is limited to the Discovery Health Rate (DHR), subject to the overall benefit maximum.   Your Personal Health Fund maximum on Essential Delta Saver Plan is based on the size and composition of your family as stated in your policy:  
  • βœ…Limited to R1,500 per adult dependent.
  • βœ…Limited to R750 per two-year-old or older child dependent.
  • βœ…Limited to R6,000 per family.
  Furthermore, the Personal Health Fund is available to all registered membership beneficiaries and will not cover healthcare services already covered by other defined benefits.     Personal Healthfund saver series

Discovery Health WHO Outbreak Benefit

  The basket of care includes the following:  
  • βœ… COVID-19 vaccines and their administration according to the COVID-19 guidelines of the National Department of Health.
  • βœ… Screening consultations with a network general practitioner (virtual, telephone, or in-person).
  • βœ… COVID-19 PCR and Rapid Antigen screening tests if referred by a qualified medical practitioner.
  • βœ… A set of defined pathology tests for COVID-19-positive individuals.
  • βœ… A predetermined assortment of x-rays and scans for COVID-19-positive individuals.
  • βœ… Members at risk who meet the clinical entry criteria will receive supportive care, including medication and a home monitoring device to track oxygen saturation levels.
  • βœ… When you are admitted to the hospital because of symptoms of COVID-19, you will be covered by the Hospital Benefit of the Essential Delta Saver and, if necessary, the PMBs.
  • βœ… Access to the Long COVID Recovery Program.
  How members of the Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver are covered in terms of Monkeypox:  
  • βœ… The treatment protocol for confirmed cases consists of a diagnostic PCR screening test.
  • βœ… Two visits to a dermatologist or general practitioner.
  Formulary of supportive medications for pain management.  

Discovery Health App and Virtual Benefits

Discovery Health Medical Scheme provides home-based access to health and wellness services. Connected Care is an integrated ecosystem of benefits, services, and digitally connected capabilities designed to assist you in managing your health and wellness.  
πŸ”΄ Health Monitoring DevicesThe Home Monitoring Device Benefit gives you access to a range of essential and registered home monitoring devices for certain chronic and acute conditions. Approved cover for these devices will not affect your day-to-day benefits.
🟠 Electronic PrescriptionsElectronic prescribing for expedited access to medications.
🟑 Home NursesHospital-related care is provided at home by registered nurses.
🟒 Medicine Ordering and TrackingOrder and track the delivery of your medication from the dispensary to your door.
πŸ”΅ Online CoachesAt-home consultations with a coach to help you better manage your chronic and acute conditions, including COVID-19.
🟣 Condition-Specific InformationEducational content pertinent to your condition is readily accessible.
  βœ… Connected care for members at home Previously unimaginable access to medical professionals is now at your fingertips, thanks to the advent of online consultations. Thanks to the Home Monitoring Device Benefit, you can get various approved home monitoring devices for chronic and acute conditions. You will not see any changes to your regular benefits because of having cover approved for these gadgets.   βœ… Connected care for those with chronic conditions Through Connected Care, you and your doctor can work together to keep your chronic condition under control while you are at home. Eligible members can use various digital services connected to smart remote monitoring, point-of-care devices, and individualized coaching consultations to monitor and control their chronic condition in the comfort of their homes.  

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Discovery Health App Core Series

Discovery Health Hospital At Home

Hospital at Home patients receive specialized care from a dedicated medical staff in the comfort of their own homes. Each of these benefits and services contributes to your overall health and well-being. They all work together to make your healthcare more efficient and your life safer. Suppose you have a valid pre-authorization for hospitalization.   In that case, Discovery Health will use your Hospital Benefit to cover any services provided as part of Discovery Health’s Hospital at Home program. For those who meet the program’s clinical and benefit criteria, this unlocks cover for approved medical devices and services.   Discovery Health covers the following:
  • βœ…24/7 clinical oversight from a care team virtually, including nurses, doctors, and allied healthcare professionals.
  • βœ…24/7 real-time remote monitoring, which is supported by innovative healthcare technology.
  • βœ…Hospital-level diagnostics and intervention to manage post-surgical or medical care at home.
Acute Care at home This includes cover and treatment for COVID-19, as well as post-discharge care. In addition, you are eligible for the Home Monitoring Device Benefit.   Home Monitoring Devices
  • βœ…The Home Monitoring Device Benefit gives you access to a range of essential and registered home monitoring devices for certain chronic and acute conditions. Approved cover for these devices will not affect your day-to-day benefits.
Home Care CoverYour access to care at home saver care 2026
  • βœ…Discovery Health Home Care is a service that provides you with high-quality care in the comfort of your own home if your doctor recommends it as an alternative to hospitalization. Postnatal care, end-of-life care, intravenous infusions (drips), and wound care are provided. These services are covered by the Hospital Benefit, pending authorization.
  • βœ…Discovery Health Home Care is the designated service provider (DSP) for intravenous infusion administration. Use Discovery Health Home Care for these infusions to avoid a 20% co-payment.

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Home-based care for follow-up treatment after hospital admission
  • βœ…Once discharged from the hospital, patients with clinically appropriate conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic cardiac failure, ischemic heart disease, and pneumonia have access to enhanced home-based care.
  If you meet the clinical entry criteria, you are covered for bedside medicine reconciliation before admission discharge, a follow-up consultation with a GP or specialist, and a defined basket of supportive care at home, including in-person and virtual consultations with a Discovery Health Home Care nurse.  

Discovery Health Saver Day-to-Day Benefits

Discovery Health will cover your medical expenses with funds from your Medical Savings Account (MSA) or Day-to-Day Extender Benefit (DEB).   βœ… The Medical Savings Account (MSA) Discovery Health pays for the day-to-day medical expenses of its members, such as consultations with GPs and specialists, medicine (excluding registered chronic medicine), radiology, and pathology, from the available funds in the member’s Medical Savings Account (MSA). Any unused funds will be carried over to the next year.   In addition, members can have their claims paid at the Discovery Health Rate (DHR) or at cost. If the member chooses to have their claims paid at cost and the claims exceed the DHR, the Scheme will automatically fund the excess from the MSA. If the member chooses to have their claims paid at the DHR and wishes to have claims paid more than the DHR from the available funds in their MSA, they can request a special payment.   βœ… The Day-to-Day Extender Benefit (DEB) The Day-to-day Extender Benefit (DEB) pays for certain benefits after depleting the MSA funds, including the following:  
  • βœ…Video call consultations with network GPs
  • βœ…Pharmacy clinic consultations
  • βœ…Unlimited face-to-face consultations with network GPs referred following a video call consultation or by the pharmacy clinic virtual GP.
  The DEB covers face-to-face consultations up to the DHR, and the type of plan determines access to these services:  
  • βœ… Single Member: 2 Consultations
  • βœ… Family: 4 Consultations
  Furthermore, on Classic Plans, kids <10 years old have two casualty visits annually.   Day to Day Benefits Saver

Discovery Health Maternity and Early Childhood Benefit

With the Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver, you get coverage for healthcare services related to your pregnancy and treatment for the first two years of your baby’s life. This applies from the date of activation of the benefit for each pregnancy and each child from birth until they are two years old.   Discovery Health Maternity Benefit covers the following:During Pregnancy:
  • βœ…Scans and Screenings
  • βœ…Eight antenatal consultations with a midwife, GP, or gynecologist.
  • βœ…2 x 2D ultrasound scans
  • βœ…Nuchal translucency test
  • βœ…3D and 4D scans up to the 2D scan rate.
  • βœ…Non-invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT)
  • βœ…One flu vaccination during pregnancy.
  • βœ…Discovery Health will pay for a defined list of blood tests to confirm pregnancy.
After giving birth:
  • βœ…Two visits to a GP and Specialist for up to 2 years.
  • βœ…Postnatal care, including complications during delivery, nutritional assessment, etc.
  Discovery Health's prenatal and postnatal care includes Five antenatal or postnatal classes and One Breastfeeding consultation.   Maternity benefits Saver

Discovery Health Chronic Benefits

The Chronic Disease List lists 27 conditions for which the Chronic Illness Benefit (CIB) provides cover (CDL). Furthermore, you are protected for 22 additional conditions on the Additional Disease List (ADL).   Discovery Health pays for consultations and medicines in the following ways: You must select a primary care physician from the Discovery Health Network to manage your chronic conditions. You must see a Discovery Health Network physician to receive full coverage for your doctor visits. Use of a non-network primary care physician will incur a 20% co-payment. Discovery Health will pay up to the Discovery Health Rate (DHR) for medications purchased at one of the network pharmacies. The DHR for medication consists of the price of the medication and the dispensing fee.   Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) Under the Prescribed Minimum Benefits, you can receive treatment for a set of medical conditions (PMBs). The PMBs cover the 27 chronic conditions in the Chronic Disease List (CDL). Furthermore, Discovery Health Health’s Essential Delta Saver Plan provides richer benefits than competitors. However, to gain access to PMBs, certain rules must be followed.   Medicine covered in terms of the chronic disease list (CDL) You have coverage for all chronic medications on the approved list. Discovery Health covers you for medications, not on the list up to the Chronic Drug Amount monthly maximum (CDA).   Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver List of conditions covered
  • βœ…Addison’s disease
  • βœ…Asthma
  • βœ…Bipolar mood disorder
  • βœ…Bronchiectasis
  • βœ…Cardiac failure
  • βœ…Cardiomyopathy
  • βœ…Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • βœ…Chronic renal disease
  • βœ…Coronary artery disease
  • βœ…Crohn’s disease
  • βœ…Diabetes insipidus
  • βœ…Diabetes Type 1
  • βœ…Diabetes Type 2
  • βœ…Dysrhythmia
  • βœ…Epilepsy
  • βœ…Glaucoma
  • βœ…Hemophilia
  and many more.  

Chronic Medicine

Members can use Discovery Health designated service providers (DSPs), MedXpress, and MedXpress Network Pharmacies, to avoid paying a 20% co-payment on chronic medication. Through MedXpress, you can order or reorder your medication online and have it delivered to your place of business or residence. Alternatively, you can:  
  • βœ…You can order your medication online and pick it up at a MedXpress Network Pharmacy or
  • βœ…Fill a prescription as usual at any pharmacy in the MedXpress Network.
βœ… Medicine Tracker Furthermore, you can set reminders and prompts to help you take your medication as prescribed and on time. For example, your approved chronic medication will be displayed automatically. You will be prompted to take your medication and confirm each dose.   Discovery Health Chronic Benefits

Discovery Health Care Programs

Discovery Health will cover preventative and condition-specific care programs that assist with managing diabetes, mental health, HIV, and heart-related conditions. You must be registered with these condition-specific care programs to access additional benefits and services. On a personalized dashboard, you and your Premier Plus GP can identify the next steps to manage your condition and optimally maintain your health over time.  
❀️ Discovery Health Disease Prevention ProgramPremier Plus GPs can enroll you in the Disease Prevention Program if you have cardiometabolic risk syndrome. Your GP, dietitian, and health coach will coordinate care. Consultations, pathology tests, and medicine are covered for enrolled members. Health coaching will help you manage your condition daily.
🧑 Discovery Health Mental Health Care ProgramOnce enrolled by your network psychologist or Premier Plus GP, you have defined major depression cover. The program provides medication coverage, virtual and in-person psychotherapy, and additional GP visits for treatment evaluation, tracking, and monitoring. Relapse prevention programs cover psychiatry consultations, counseling, and care coordination for qualifying members.
πŸ’› Discovery Health Diabetes Care ProgramYour Premier Plus GP can enroll you in the Diabetes Care Program if you receive the Chronic Illness Benefit (CIB) for diabetes. The program covers extra glucometer strips and dietitian and biokinetics visits. A nurse educator may help you manage your condition.
πŸ’š Discovery Health HIV Care ProgramPremier Plus GPs register HIV patients for care, including social worker cover. Always confidential. Avoid a 20% co-payment by getting your medicine from a DSP.
πŸ’™ Discovery Health Cardio Care ProgramIf your Premier Plus GP refers you to the Cardio Care Program and you are registered on the Chronic Illness Benefit (CIB) for hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or ischemic heart disease, you can receive a defined basket of care and an annual cardiovascular assessment.
πŸ’œ Track Your Health via the Discovery Health AppYou can receive individualized exercise objectives that help you manage your health. If you are at risk for developing cardiovascular disease or diabetes or have been diagnosed with one of these conditions, Discovery Health will provide you with individualized goals. You can track your progress using the Discovery Health app and be rewarded for achieving your fitness objectives.
🀎Depression Risk Management Programme If you are identified as being at risk of depression, you will have access to a 6-month long care programme with a defined basket of care. This includes a consultation with a Premier Plus GP or network psychologist, coaching sessions with a social worker to coordinate your care, consultations with a dietitian, and a clinically appropriate digital mental wellbeing course. Cover is subject to clinical entry criteria treatment guidelines and protocols. Depression Risk Management Programme.
  The cover is subject to the Scheme’s clinical entry requirements, treatment protocols, and guidelines.   Discovery Health Care Programs

Discovery Health Comprehensive Cancer Cover

You have access to comprehensive cancer treatment coverage. This includes access to expensive medications, innovative treatments, and extended coverage once certain thresholds are reached.  
πŸŽ—οΈ Discovery Health Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB)PMB cancer treatment is always covered. PMB treatment costs total the cover. Discovery Health will cover PMB cancer treatment even if it exceeds the cover amount.
🟨 Discovery Health Oncology BenefitAfter Discovery Health has approved your cancer treatment, the Oncology Care Program covers you. Discovery Health will cover approved cancer treatment for 12 months. Discovery Health covers the first R250,000. Discovery Health will cover up to 80% of additional costs if your treatment exceeds the cover amount. Discovery Health Rate covers up to 100% of cancer-related healthcare services (DHR). If your doctor charges more, you may have a co-payment.
πŸ’› Discovery Health Oncology Innovation BenefitSubject to the Scheme’s clinical entry criteria, the Oncology Innovation Benefit covers a subset of innovative cancer medicine. Members must pay 50% of these treatments.
🟑 Discovery Health – Covering MedicineTo avoid a 20% co-payment, get your approved oncology medicine from a DSP on the Scheme’s medicine list. Ask your doctor if they use the Scheme’s DSPs for your in-room or facility treatment. Oncology medicine is paid up to 100% of the Discovery Health Rate or up to the Oncology Reference Price, whichever is applicable.
πŸ₯° Discovery Health Advanced Illness BenefitMembers receive comprehensive palliative care. This program covers unlimited home care, care coordination, counseling, and supportive care for appropriate end-of-life clinical and psychologist services. Your palliative care treatment plan includes GP consultations.
  Discovery Health Comprehensive Cancer Cover

Discovery Health Hospital Benefit

The Essential Delta Saver includes hospitalization coverage. Furthermore, there is no limit on the total amount covered by the Hospital Benefit.  
  • βœ…The cover is provided in any private hospital approved by the Scheme, subject to network requirements for the Essential Delta Plan.
  • βœ…You are covered for planned hospital stays.
  • βœ…On the Delta Plan, you must use a hospital within your plan’s network. However, you may visit any private hospital approved by the Scheme for funding on the remaining plans. On all health plans, the funding of newly licensed facilities is subject to Scheme approval.
  • βœ…Your Hospital Benefit is used to cover planned hospital stays. In addition, Discovery Health will pay for hospitalization-related services, including all healthcare professionals, services, and medications authorized by the Scheme.
  • βœ…If you utilize Discovery Health Health’s contracted physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals. Discovery Health will pay up to 100% for these services.
Pre-operative Management Program for major surgeries
  • βœ…For arthroplasty, colorectal surgery, coronary artery bypass graft, radical prostatectomy, and mastectomy, you are covered for a pre-operative nurse assessment, a consultation (face-to-face, virtual, or telephonic) with your treating healthcare professional, and specific laboratory, pathology, and radiology tests.
  • βœ…Clinical entry and treatment guidelines govern cover.
How Discovery Health will pay for approved hospital admissions on the Essential Delta Saver:
πŸŸ₯ The Hospital AccountFull hospital account paid at the agreed rate. For planned admissions to non-Delta Hospital Network hospitals, Delta requires R11,100 upfront. The Coastal plan requires planned admissions to Coastal-approved hospitals. Discovery Health will pay 70% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR) for Scheme-approved hospitals outside the coastal network.
🟧 Upfront payments for a defined list of procedures that are performed outside the Day Surgery NetworkThere is an R11,100 upfront payment.
🟨 A defined list of procedures that are performed in specialist roomsPaid according to the agreed rate where Discovery Health has authorized procedures.
🟩 Specialist with whom Discovery Health has an arrangementThe full account is paid according to the agreed rate.
🟦 Specialists with whom Discovery Health does not have an arrangement, and other healthcare professionalsPaid up to 100% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR).
πŸŸͺ Radiology and PathologyPaid up to 100% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR).
πŸŸ₯ MRI and CT scansIf it is related to your hospital admission from your Hospital Benefit. Your day-to-day benefits will cover the initial amount of R4,000 for conservative back and neck treatment or non-admission-related expenses. In contrast, your Hospital Benefit will cover the remaining amount up to the Discovery Health Rate (DHR). Restricted to a single scan of the cervical and thoracic regions
🟫 Cataract Surgery at a network providerWe pay the full account at the agreed rate at a network facility for cataract surgery. We pay the hospital account at up to 80% of the Discovery Health Rate at any other facility.
  Essential Delta Saver Scopes You are responsible for the following amount depending on where your scope is performed. Your Hospital Benefit will cover the remaining hospital and related charges.  
πŸŸ₯ Discovery Medical Plan🟧 Day Clinic Account🟨 Hospital Account
🟩 Essential Delta SaverR4,650This co-payment will be reduced from R8,000 to R6,650 if performed by a doctor in the Scheme’s value-based network.
🟦 If a gastroscopy and colonoscopy are performed during the same admission--
πŸŸͺ Essential Delta SaverR5,700This co-payment will be reduced from R9,950 to R8,250 if performed by a doctor in the Scheme’s value-based network.
  Furthermore, the following will apply to scopes on the Essential Delta Saver:
  • βœ…Scopes performed outside the Day Surgery Network will require an upfront payment of R7,250 except for procedures performed at a hospital outside the Day Surgery Network.
  • βœ…Then, the upfront payment will be R8,000.
  • βœ…If a gastroscopy and colonoscopy are performed, a one-time payment of R9,850 is required.
  • βœ…For Delta options, the out-of-network upfront payment of R11,100 will apply.
  If scopes are performed in the doctor’s office as part of a confirmed Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB) condition or if the patient is under 12 years old, no upfront payment is required. Furthermore, the Hospital Benefit covers the bill.   Hospital Benefits Saver

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Annual Limits

🦻 Cochlear Implants, Auditory Brain Implants, and processorsR252,000 per person per benefit.
🧬 Internal Nerve StimulatorsR192,000 per person
🩹 Major Joint SurgeryNo limit for planned hip and knee joint replacements if you use a provider in the network, or up to 80% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR) if you use a provider outside the network, up to R31,850 per prosthesis per admission. Emergency and trauma surgeries are excluded from the network.
🦾 Shoulder Joint SurgeryIf you use a provider outside the network, you can pay up to R48,500 for your prosthesis.
🍹 Alcohol and Drug RehabilitationDiscovery Health will cover 21 days of rehabilitation per person per year. Three days for detoxification per approved admission.
🧠 Mental healthTwenty-one days for admissions or 15 out-of-hospital consultations per person for major affective disorders, anorexia, and bulimia, and 12 for acute stress disorder with recent significant trauma. Three days for attempted suicide admissions. Other mental health admissions are 21 days. Network facilities cover all mental health admissions. If you go elsewhere, the Scheme will pay up to 80% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR) for the hospital account.
πŸ“Œ Prosthetic Devices used during Spinal SurgeryThe preferred prosthesis suppliers have no limit. If you do not use a preferred supplier, the first level is R21,600, and two or more levels are R43,150, limited to one procedure per person per year. The spinal surgery network covers approved spinal surgery admissions. The hospital account will receive up to 80% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR) for planned admissions outside the Scheme’s network.
🦷 Dental Treatment in the hospitalDental Limit: No overall dental limit. However, your Medical Savings Account pays 100% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR) for dental appliances, prostheses, orthodontic treatment, and orthognathic surgery (MSA). Severe Dental and Oral Surgery In-Hospital: The Severe Dental and Oral Surgery Benefit covers procedures without upfront payment or limit. This benefit requires authorization and Scheme Rules. Basic Dental Trauma: The Basic Dental Trauma Benefit covers unexpected dental injuries requiring emergency treatment after an accident. Dental appliances and prostheses and their placement are covered up to R70,800 per year if clinical entry criteria are met. Dental Treatment In-Hospital: Dental admissions require prepaying your hospital or day clinic bill, except for severe dental and oral surgery. Age and treatment location determine this amount. Your Hospital Benefit pays the hospital bill up to 100% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR). The benefit covers related bills, including the dentist’s, up to 100% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR). Anesthetists receive 200% of Discovery Health Rate on Classic plans (DHR). Upfront Payments for Dental Admission: Hospital Account – R8,950 for members 13> and R3,470 for members <13 Day Clinic Account – R5,750 for members 12> and R1,550 for members <13
  Discovery Health Classic Saver Annual Limits

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Cover for Day Surgery Network Procedures

Discovery Health will provide cover for certain day surgery procedures. A day surgery may take place in a hospital, a day clinic, or an independent facility. Furthermore, these services are covered by your Hospital Benefit. Discovery Health will pay for hospitalization-related services, including all authorized healthcare professionals, services, and medications.   Discovery Health will cover the costs of doctors, specialists, and other healthcare providers with which the scheme has an arrangement. In addition, Discovery Health will pay 100% of the Discovery Health Rate (DHR) on the Essential Delta Saver pl for other healthcare professionals.   The following list provides the procedures that can be performed in a Discovery Health Day Surgery Network:
  • βœ… Biopsies
  • βœ… Breast Procedures
  • βœ… Ear, nose, and throat procedures
  • βœ… Eye Procedures
  • βœ… Ganglionectomy
  • βœ… Gastrointestinal scopes and procedures
  • βœ… Gynecological Procedures
  • βœ… Orthopedic Procedures
  • βœ… Removal of a foreign body
  • βœ… Simple superficial lymphadenectomy
  • βœ… Skin procedures
  • βœ… Urological procedures
  If you visit a facility not in your plan’s Day Surgery Network, you must pay a co-payment of R11,100.   Saver series cover for procedures

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Extra Benefits

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver provides the following additional benefits.   In-Room Procedures
  • βœ…The cover is limited to specialist room procedures.
  • βœ…Hospital Benefit covers up to the Scheme-authorised rate.
Advanced Illness Benefit
  • βœ…Members receive comprehensive palliative care.
  • βœ…This program covers unlimited home care, care coordination, counseling, and supportive care for appropriate end-of-life clinical and psychologist services.
  • βœ…Your palliative care treatment plan includes GP consultations.
Claims Relating to Traumatic Events
  • βœ…Trauma Recovery Extender Benefit covers out-of-hospital trauma claims.
  • βœ…The Trauma Recovery Extender Benefit pays claims for the rest of the year and the year after.
  • βœ…For the year when the trauma occurs and the year after, you and your dependents on your health plan can receive six counseling sessions per person per year from a psychologist, clinical social worker, or registered counselor.
  • βœ…To qualify, members must apply for this benefit.
βœ… Africa Evacuation Cover
  • βœ…Emergency medical evacuations from sub-Saharan African countries to South Africa are covered.
  • βœ…Excludes pre-existing conditions.
International Travel Benefit
  • βœ…While traveling outside South Africa, you are covered for emergency medical costs up to US$1 million per person.
  • βœ…The cover lasts 90 days after leaving South Africa.
  • βœ…This benefit excludes pre-existing conditions.
  • βœ…Suppose the elective treatment is freely available in South Africa and covered by your plan. In that case, Discovery Health might cover it at equivalent local costs.
International Second Opinion Services
  • βœ…The Clinic by Cleveland Clinic provides second opinions for life-threatening and life-changing conditions through your specialist.
  • βœ…Discovery Health will pay 100% for second opinions.
  Finally, Conservative spinal treatment that is out-of-hospital includes virtual and face-to-face consultations with an appropriately registered allied healthcare professional.   Extra Benefits Saver

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Value-Added Offers

  • βœ… Healthy Care at Clicks or Dis-Chem offers discounts on personal and family products. Healthy Care includes baby care, dental care, eye care, foot care, sun care, hand care, first aid, and over-the-counter medicine.
  • βœ… Your plan’s optometrists offer 20% off frames and lenses when you pay immediately.
  • βœ… Expectant parents can cryogenically store their newborn baby’s umbilical cord blood and tissue stem cells at a discounted rate with Netcells’ exclusive offer.
  • βœ… Vitality, the world’s leading science-based wellness program, rewards healthy living. As a result, Discovery Health Vitality members live longer and healthier lives.
  Discovery Health collaborates with myHealthTeam, a global leader in online patient communities. This gives members with diabetes, heart disease, and long-term COVID access to a digital community of patients to manage their conditions.   Discovery Health Saver Value-Added Offers

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Exclusions and Waiting Periods

Exclusions include the following:
  • βœ…Reconstructive surgical procedures and treatments, including cosmetic procedures and treatments
  • βœ…Otoplasty for bat ears, blepharoplasty, and port-wine stains (eyelid surgery)
  • βœ…Breast reductions or augmentations and gynecomastia are considered cosmetic procedures.
  • βœ…Obesity
  • βœ…Unless included in Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) or Assisted Reproductive Therapy, infertility is not covered (ART) Benefit
  • βœ…Frail care
  • βœ…Abuse of alcohol, drugs, or solvents
  • βœ…Willful and significant infraction of the law
  • βœ…Willful participation in a war, a terrorist act, a riot, a civil disturbance, a revolt, or an uprising.
  • βœ…Injuries incurred or medical care rendered during travel to or within a country at war.
  • βœ…Experimental, unproven, or unregistered treatments or practices
  • βœ…Rescue and search.
Discovery Health Health’s waiting periods are as follows:
  • βœ…During your waiting periods, you will not have access to the Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) if you are subject to waiting periods due to never having belonged to a medical scheme or a break in membership of more than 90 days before joining Discovery Health Medical Scheme, including emergency admission cover.
  If you had less than a 90-day break in cover before enrolling in Discovery Health Medical Scheme, you might be eligible for Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) during waiting periods.   Exclusions Saver

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Plan vs Similar Plans from Other Medical Schemes

πŸ”Ž Medical Aid PlanπŸ₯‡ Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver πŸ₯ˆ Momentum Custom Plan πŸ₯‰ Thebemed Energy
🌎 International CoverR5 millionUp to R7.66 millionNone
πŸ‘€ Main Member ContributionR3,099R2,585 – R4,472R3,490
πŸ‘₯ Adult Dependent ContributionR2,339R1,956 - R3,541R3,300
🍼 Child Dependent ContributionR1,243R981 - R1,586R580
πŸ” Gap Coverβœ… Yesβœ… YesNone
πŸ’™ Hospital CoverUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited
😎 Optometry BenefitNoneβœ… Yesβœ… Yes
🦷 Dentistry BenefitIn-hospitalβœ… Yesβœ… Yes
πŸ’Ά Medical Savings Accountβœ… YesNoneNone
  Personal Health Fund and Medical Savings Account

Our Verdict on the Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver

Essential Delta saver verdict   πŸ‘‰πŸΎ The Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver is a medical aid plan offered by Discovery Health Medical Scheme in South Africa. This plan is designed to provide affordable coverage for essential healthcare services while offering good coverage for out-of-hospital expenses.   πŸ‘‰πŸΎΒ  In addition, the plan has several benefits, but it also has some drawbacks that potential members should be aware of. For example, a benefit of the Essential Delta Saver plan is choosing a hospital network. Members who use a hospital in the network can benefit from lower costs and more streamlined processes. The plan also offers cover for emergency medical care, essential for those requiring urgent medical attention.   πŸ‘‰πŸΎ Despite its benefits, the Essential Delta Saver plan has some limitations that potential members should know. For example, the plan has a sub-limit for certain benefits, such as consultations with specialists and certain diagnostic tests.   You might also consider the following options that Discovery Health Saver SeriesΒ  offer:

Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Essential Delta Saver plan an affordable option for medical aid?

Yes, the Essential Delta Saver plan is one of the most affordable plans offered by Discovery Health Medical Scheme, making it a good option for those on a budget. Main member starts from R3,099

What benefits are included in the Essential Delta Saver plan?

The plan covers essential healthcare services such as hospitalization, chronic medication, emergency medical care, specialist consultations, radiology, pathology, and preventative healthcare services.  

Is there a hospital network for the Essential Delta Saver plan?

Yes, members can use a hospital in the network to benefit from lower costs and streamlined processes.  

Does the Essential Delta Saver plan cover emergency medical care?

Yes, the plan offers cover for emergency medical care, which is essential for those who require urgent medical attention.  

Are there sub-limits on the Essential Delta Saver plan?

Yes, the plan has sub-limits for certain benefits, such as consultations with specialists and certain diagnostic tests.
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