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Medical Aid Schemes that Cover High Cholesterol (🇿🇦 2025*)

💙 High cholesterol is a silent but potentially fatal disease affecting a sizable portion of South Africa. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, one of South Africa’s leading causes of death.

💙 Because it can potentially cause serious health complications such as heart attacks and strokes, medical aid schemes frequently include its diagnosis and treatment benefits. Covering high cholesterol is a health necessity and a financial strategy for medical aids, as early treatment can prevent costly complications later.

👉 In this article you will learn:

✅ The Best Medical Aid Schemes that Cover High-Cholesterol in South Africa (2025) – a List
✅ What is the difference between hyperlipidemia and hyperlipidemia?
✅ The Best Medical Aid Schemes that Covers Chronic Medication, and Primary Treatment for High Cholesterol.

Medical Aid Schemes that Cover High Cholesterol – a Comparison

🔎 Provider	▶️ Covers High Cholesterol	⏩ Top Plan Covering High Cholesterol
🥇 Bestmed	✅ Yes	Pace 4
🥈 Bonitas	✅ Yes	BonSave
🥉 Cape Medical	✅ Yes	MyHealth 200
🏅 CompCare	✅ Yes	ExecuCarePlus
🎖️ Discovery Health	✅ Yes	Coastal Core
🏆 FedHealth	✅ Yes	MyFED
🥇 Genesis	✅ Yes	Med100
🥈 Sizwe Hosmed	✅ Yes	Value
🥉 KeyHealth	✅ Yes	Gold
🏅 Makoti Medical	✅ Yes	Primary
🎖️ Medihelp	✅ Yes	MedSave
🏆 Medimed	✅ Yes	Alpha
🥇 MedShield	✅ Yes	MediCurve
🥈 Momentum	✅ Yes	Ingwe
🥉 Suremed	✅ Yes	Shuttle
🏅 Thebemed	✅ Yes	Energy

Medical Aid Schemes that Cover High Cholesterol (2025)

☑️ Bestmed – Overall, the Best Medical Scheme that covers High Cholesterol in South Africa (2025)
☑️ Bonitas – Free Wellness Screening for Each Member once a Year
☑️ Cape Medical – In-hospital Pathology Services
☑️ CompCare – Best Medical Aid Scheme for Families
☑️ Discovery Health – Offers a Comprehensive Chronic Benefits List
☑️ FedHealth – Flexible and Affordable Healthcare for Individuals and Families
☑️ Genesis – Non-Network Restricted Medical Aid
☑️ Sizwe Hosmed – South African-Based Medical Aid
☑️ KeyHealth – Affordable and Comprehensive Medical Aid
☑️ Makoti Medical – Affordable Healthcare from R332 ZAR
☑️ MediHelp – Flexible Healthcare Solutions
☑️ MediMed – Best Medical Aid for Individuals
☑️ MedShield – Popular Medical Aid for Young Professionals
☑️ Momentum Health – Popular Medical Aid Scheme for Beginners
☑️ Suremed – Cost-Effective Medical Care
☑️ Thebemed – Unlimited Private Hospital cover at network hospitals

What is High Cholesterol?

💙 Elevated lipid levels in the blood define high cholesterol as a medical condition. This substance plays vital roles, such as forming cell membranes, producing hormones, and synthesizing vitamin D.

💙 However, when excessively present, it may lead to arterial plaque accumulation, heightening one’s risk for cardiovascular ailments.

Overview of High Cholesterol

💙 Cholesterol and proteins combine in the bloodstream to form lipoproteins, which are then categorized as either Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), commonly referred to as “bad cholesterol,” or High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), known as “good cholesterol.”

💙 Elevated levels of LDL can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, reducing their flexibility and causing atherosclerosis. This ailment increases cardiovascular risk, such as heart attacks and strokes.

High Cholesterol Stats in South Africa

💙 The high occurrence of elevated cholesterol in South Africa is causing growing concern. The Heart and Stroke Foundation has reported that approximately 6.3 million people within the country are affected by this health condition, indicating a significant proportion may be susceptible to cardiovascular disease.

💙 Certain segments of the population seem more at risk than others, including those over 35 years old or with genetic predispositions for heart problems or increased cholesterol levels. These figures emphasize the need for preventative measures against such ailments across all demographics.

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Can High Cholesterol be cured, and how?

💙 Because high cholesterol is generally regarded as a chronic condition that can be managed rather than completely eradicated, the term “cure” is rarely used in the context of treatment.

💙 A healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking are all examples of lifestyle changes that can significantly lower cholesterol levels. To manage high LDL levels, medications such as statins are commonly prescribed.

High Cholesterol Curability and Management

💙 High cholesterol is not curable traditionally, but it is highly manageable. Management strategies are frequently multifaceted, involving both lifestyle changes and medication. Diet is extremely important; foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol should be avoided.

💙 Another important aspect of cholesterol management is exercise; even moderate exercise can help raise HDL levels while lowering LDL.

💙 Medications, primarily statins, are frequently prescribed for people who cannot control their cholesterol through lifestyle changes alone or have extremely high LDL levels. For effective management, regular monitoring and consultation with healthcare providers are required.

High Cholesterol Symptoms

💙 Dubbed the “silent killer,” high cholesterol often remains undetected as it presents no visible symptoms until it triggers severe health issues.

💙 Yet several indirect signs of heightened cholesterol levels may arise, typically manifesting in complications or conditions associated with this ailment. The ensuing are apparent indications and circumstances that suggest elevated cholesterol:

👉 The following are some of the common symptoms of High Cholesterol:

✅ Chest Pain (Angina)
✅ Shortness of Breath
✅ Fatigue
✅ Frequent Episodes of Indigestion
✅ Leg Pain or Numbness
✅ Stroke or Mini-Stroke Symptoms
✅ Chest Pain (Angina)

Stroke or Mini-Stroke Symptoms

💙 Sudden symptoms of a stroke or a mini-stroke (transient ischemic attack) include difficulty speaking, paralysis on one side of the body, or severe headaches. High cholesterol levels, which cause arterial blockages, can cause both conditions.

💙 Immediate medical attention is required, and these symptoms should serve as a wake-up call to have your cholesterol levels checked.

Chest Pain (Angina)

💙 Chest pain or angina should never be dismissed in South Africa, where cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death.

💙 Angina occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen, frequently caused by plaque buildup in the arteries caused by high cholesterol.

💙 This condition is a major indicator of heart disease and possibly an impending heart attack. Immediate medical care is required for diagnosis and management.

Shortness of Breath

💙 Shortness of breath can be a concerning symptom, especially in South Africans predisposed to high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.

💙 This symptom frequently indicates that your heart is working harder than it should, possibly due to narrowed arteries. While shortness of breath can be caused by various conditions, when combined with other risk factors such as obesity or a sedentary lifestyle, it necessitates a cholesterol test.

Fatigue

💙 Another indirect sign of high cholesterol is persistent fatigue. Reduced blood flow caused by arterial narrowing can lead to decreased energy levels. Fatigue is frequently overlooked in a country where many people have demanding jobs and lifestyles.

💙 However, if you are experiencing unexplained fatigue, especially if you have other risk factors for high cholesterol, you should see a doctor for a thorough evaluation.

Frequent Episodes of Indigestion

💙 Indigestion regularly could be more than just a digestive problem; it could be a sign of high cholesterol. Plaque buildup in arteries can also impair blood flow to the stomach and digestive system, causing pain and indigestion.

Leg Pain or Numbness

💙 Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is often linked to elevated cholesterol and can present through leg pain or numbness. This condition affects many South Africans, especially those who smoke or have diabetes.

💙 Individuals suffering from PAD may experience discomfort while engaging in physical activities but find relief upon resting. In such cases, medical professionals typically recommend undergoing various tests, including a cholesterol test.

High Cholesterol Treatment

👉 In South Africa, where high cholesterol is prevalent, effectively managing it is essential in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The prescribed treatment entails a blend of lifestyle modifications and medication. High cholesterol can be treated in the following ways:

✅ Statin Medication
✅ Nutritional Supplements
✅ Non-Statin Medication
✅ Surgical Interventions
✅ Lifestyle Modifications

Statin Medication

💙 The medication most often prescribed to lower cholesterol is statins. Their function involves hindering a cholesterol-producing liver enzyme, thereby reducing the amount of LDL in the bloodstream.

💙 Statins can be easily obtained throughout South Africa and are frequently included as part of medical aid schemes that support managing high cholesterol levels.

💙 Nonetheless, regular monitoring is necessary, given their potential side effects on both muscles and liver functioning. It’s always best practice to consult your healthcare provider for optimal treatment centered around your health needs.

Nutritional Supplements

💙 Some South Africans use nutritional supplements like garlic, omega-3 fatty acids, and plant sterols to control elevated cholesterol levels. Even though these supplements offer certain advantages, they should not be substituted for prescribed medication.

💙 Before adding any supplement to your therapy regime, you must seek counsel from a qualified healthcare practitioner because the efficacy and quality of such products can vary widely.

Non-Statin Medication

💙 Non-statin drugs like niacin, fibrates, and bile acid sequestrants can be recommended for individuals who cannot tolerate statins or need supplementary cholesterol-lowering effects. These medications function through varied mechanisms to decrease LDL or increase HDL levels.

💙 Notably, these medicines are considered secondary options in the South African setting and may not have as broad coverage by medical schemes. Consequently, it is imperative to deliberate with your healthcare provider about their advantages and drawbacks beforehand.

Surgical Interventions

💙 Surgical interventions such as angioplasty and stent placement may be required in severe cases. These procedures are typically reserved for people with severe arterial blockages that pose an immediate danger to their lives.

💙 Such interventions are typically considered a last resort in South Africa and are frequently covered by comprehensive medical aid schemes. However, surgery does not cure high cholesterol and must be combined with lifestyle changes and medication to be effective in the long run.

Lifestyle Modifications

💙 Lifestyle changes are frequently the first line of defense against high cholesterol. Making healthier choices can significantly impact South Africa, where diets can be high in saturated fats and low physical activity levels.

💙 A well-balanced diet high in fiber and low in saturated fats can help lower LDL levels. Another important factor is exercise; even moderate physical activity can lower cholesterol levels.

💙 It is also advised to quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. These changes not only lower cholesterol but also improve overall health.

Medical Aid Schemes that Include Benefits for High Cholesterol

Bestmed

💙 Bestmed, known for its competitive pricing, provides affordable healthcare plans without sacrificing quality. Bestmed provides coverage for High Cholesterol. According to the Bestmed website, Hyperlipidaemia is described as having “too many lipids (or fats) in your blood, such as cholesterol and triglycerides.”

💙 Furthermore, the Bestmed chronic condition formulary contains Hyperlipidaemia, and Lipogram findings are necessary.

👉 The following Bestmed Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Bonitas

💙 Bonitas, known for its extensive network of healthcare providers, provides members with unrivaled access to high-quality medical services.

💙 Bonitas covers High Cholesterol. Bonitas provides wellness and preventative care benefits on all its plans to assist its members in living better and happier lives, including free yearly blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol checks.

👉 The following Bonitas Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Cape Medical Plan

💙 Cape Medical Plan’s straightforward, effective plans simplify the choice in a landscape crowded with complex healthcare options. It’s a name you can rely on for all your medical needs. Cape Medical Plan covers Hyperlipidaemia as part of the CDL.

👉 The following Cape Medical Plan Plans provide benefits and cover for Hyperlipidaemia :

CompCare

💙 CompCare, specializing in holistic healthcare, provides medical aid plans covering preventive and curative treatments. Their emphasis on wellness distinguishes them. CompCare covers High Cholesterol under “Hyperlipidaemia.”

👉 The following CompCare Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Discovery Health

💙 Discovery Health is notable for its Vitality rewards program, which encourages members to live healthier lifestyles while providing various benefits.

💙 Discovery Health covers HDL. Discovery Health offers Health Checks, financially advantageous cholesterol screenings for members. Discovery Health also offers wellness programs and preventative care on all plans to assist members to live healthier and happier lives.

👉 The following Discovery Health Medical Aid Plans are some of the Discovery plans that provide benefits and cover for High Cholestrol :

Fedhealth

💙 Fedhealth’s comprehensive healthcare plans are designed to adapt to the changing medical needs of its diverse members. FedHealth Covers High Cholesterol. The Fedhealth website states that all members 20 and older receive a full lipogram cholesterol test from a pathology lab as part of their test Benefit.

👉 The following Fedhealth Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Genesis Medical Scheme

💙 Genesis Medical Scheme has become a top choice for all-inclusive healthcare options. The Genesis Medical Scheme covers high cholesterol. The Genesis Medical Associates site states that high cholesterol is a subtle but serious health condition that increases heart disease risk.

👉 The following Genesis Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Sizwe Hosmed

💙 Sizwe Hosmed, with a focus on innovation, is constantly evolving its offerings to meet changing healthcare demands.

👉 The following Sizwe Hosmed Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Keyhealth

💙 Keyhealth is a beacon of straightforward medical aid, simplifying South Africans’ healthcare options.

👉 The following Keyhealth Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Makoti Medical Scheme

💙 Makoti Medical Scheme has been a game changer in localized medical aid as a catalyst for community health improvement.

👉 The following Makoti Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol :

Medihelp

💙 Medihelp’s focus on individualized healthcare solutions has earned it a loyal following. Medihelp covers High Cholesterol. According to the website, Medihelp members may have annual blood glucose and cholesterol testing at their wellness partners. Hyperlipidaemia is on Medihelp’s chronic disease formulary, and lipograms are needed.

👉 The following Medihelp Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Medimed Medical Scheme

💙 Medimed Medical Scheme represents the pinnacle of healthcare quality, establishing new benchmarks for medical aid services.

👉 The following Medimed Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Medshield

💙 Medshield, a company renowned for its customer-centric ethos, continuously modifies its offerings to satisfy the changing healthcare needs of its members.

👉 The following Medshield Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Momentum Health

💙 Momentum Health helps people and families get all the medical care they need by offering a variety of flexible plans.

👉 The following Momentum Health Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

Suremed

💙 Suremed ensures members have a hassle-free experience and is well known for its strong customer service.

👉 The Suremed Health Shuttle, Explorer, Navigator, and, Challenger Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol.

Thebemed

💙 Thebemed is the best choice for people who want complete healthcare solutions because it is a leader in the medical aid industry.

👉 The following Thebemed Health Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for High Cholesterol:

In Conclusion

💙 High cholesterol is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and it can cause serious health complications such as heart attacks and strokes. Patients need to consider medical aid schemes that frequently include diagnosis and treatment benefits, as early treatment can prevent costly complications later.

👉 You might also like: Discovery Health Review

👉 You might also like: Bestmed Review

👉 You might also like: Bonitas Review

👉 You might also like: Medihelp Review

👉 You might also like: Momentum Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Is high cholesterol a PMB in South Africa?

Yes, high cholesterol is a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) in South Africa, which means that medical aid schemes must cover its diagnosis and treatment.

Does Discovery cover high cholesterol?

Yes, Discovery Health, a leading medical aid provider in South Africa, includes high cholesterol as part of its chronic illness benefits.

What should you do if you have high cholesterol?

If you have high cholesterol, see a doctor for a comprehensive treatment plan that may include lifestyle changes and medication.

Where can I get my cholesterol checked for free in South Africa?

Yes, some public clinics and community health events provide free cholesterol testing.

Is high cholesterol considered a medical condition in South Africa?

Yes, high cholesterol is a medical condition in South Africa covered by most medical aid schemes under chronic illness benefits.

Does Clicks do cholesterol testing in South Africa?

Yes, Clicks pharmacies in South Africa provide cholesterol testing services for a fee.

What are the five signs of high cholesterol?

Chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, fatigue, frequent episodes of indigestion, and leg pain or numbness are the five symptoms of high cholesterol.

How much does a cholesterol test cost in South Africa?

A cholesterol test in South Africa can cost between R100 and R300, depending on the healthcare provider.

What is the normal range for cholesterol in South Africa?

The normal cholesterol range is generally less than 5 mmol/L for total cholesterol and less than 3 mmol/L for LDL cholesterol.

What are the new findings about cholesterol?

New cholesterol research emphasizes the importance of the cholesterol ratio (HDL to LDL) and particle size over total cholesterol levels.

What is the difference between hyperlipidemia and hyperlipidemia?

Hyperlipidemia is above normal lipid (fat) levels in the blood, which include several types of lipids, including triglycerides. Hypercholesterolemia is above normal levels of LDL or total cholesterol in your blood. It doesn’t include triglycerides.

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