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Medical Aid Schemes that Cover Multiple Sclerosis

Do you have Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and live in South Africa? You are not alone. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often debilitating disease requiring long-term medical attention. The cost of treatment, including medication and therapy, can be prohibitively expensive.

Recognising the financial and medical severity of MS, many South African Medical Aid Schemes include benefits designed to alleviate the burden on patients and their families.

This article explains the complexities of MS, from its symptoms to available treatments. More importantly, we investigate the Medical Aid Schemes in South Africa that provide coverage for Multiple Sclerosis (MS), assisting you in obtaining the appropriate healthcare support. In this article you will learn:

Best Medical Aid Schemes that Cover Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in South Africa (2024) – a list
Is Multiple Sclerosis a PMB condition?
What is a Multiple Sclerosis condition?
Medical Aid plans covering Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for pensioners
Does Discovery Health, Bonitas and Momentum cover MS Medicine in South Africa?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) symptoms, treatments & therapy sessions
What devices are already on the market for MS

And much MUCH more

Medical Aid Schemes that Cover Multiple Sclerosis – A Comparison

🔎 Provider	▶️ Covers Strokes	💙 Top Plan for Covering Stroke
🥇 Bestmed	✅ Yes	Rhythm 2
🥈 Bonitas	✅ Yes	BonCap
🥉 Cape Medical Plan	✅ Yes	HealthPact Select
🏅 CompCare	✅ Yes	SELFSURE
🥇 Discovery Health	✅ Yes	Executive Plan
🥈 Fedhealth	✅ Yes	FlexiFed 3
🥉 Genesis	✅ Yes	MED 200
🏅 Siswe Hosmed	✅ Yes	Essential Copper
🎖️ KeyHealth	✅ Yes	Origin
🥇 Makoti	✅ Yes	Primary
🥈 Medihelp	✅ Yes	MedPrime Elect
🥉 MediMed	✅ Yes	Medisave Standard
🏅 MedShield	✅ Yes	PremiumPlus
🥇 Momentum Health	✅ Yes	Extender
🥈 Suremed	✅ Yes	Challenger
🥉 Thebemed	✅ Yes	Universal

Medical Aid Schemes that Cover Multiple Sclerosis – 2024

☑️ Bestmed – Offers Mainstream Chronic Benefits in all plans
☑️ Bonitas – BonCAP covers Multiple Sclerosis as a PMB.
☑️ Cape Medical Plan – Provides Various Healthcare Solutions
☑️ CompCare – Affordable medical aid plans Plus Comprehensive Health Cover for MS
☑️ Discovery Health – Overall the best medical aid scheme covering Multiple Sclerosis in SA
☑️ Fedhealth – Flexible and Affordable Healthcare for Individuals and Families
☑️ Genesis – In hospital Multiple Sclerosis treatment covered alongside 26 chronic conditions
☑️ Siswe Hosmed – Access to the Sizwe Hosmed Wellness Program
☑️ KeyHealth – Simple, easy-to-understand medical aid solutions
☑️ Makoti Medical Scheme – Basic Healthcare for Low-Income from R332 ZAR
☑️ MediHelp – Cost-Effective Medical Care for South Africans
☑️ MediMed – Flexible Healthcare Solutions
☑️ Medshield – Unlimited In-Hospital cover in case of major medical emergencies
☑️ Momentum Health – Multiple Sclerosis treatment cover is available for an additional 36 conditions at any provider
☑️ Suremed – Covers Multiple Sclerosis amongst other benefits of CDL
☑️ Thebemed – Medical aid for low- and middle-income individuals

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

This segment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), which affects numerous people in South Africa. We will delve into the fundamental characteristics of the disorder and its prevalence rate in South Africa and explore potential coping mechanisms.

Overview of Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease primarily affecting the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. In multiple sclerosis, the immune system incorrectly attacks the protective sheath around nerve fibres, known as myelin, causing inflammation and damage.

This disrupts information flow within and between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms can range from fatigue and numbness to vision loss and mobility issues in more severe cases. The disease is frequently unpredictable, with remissions and flare-ups.

Multiple Sclerosis Stats in South Africa

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune condition affecting the central nervous system. Below are pertinent statistics regarding MS in South Africa:

✅ Research conducted in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal unveiled a prevalence rate of 25.6 per 100,000 individuals across various ethnic backgrounds.
✅ Another study indicates that the prevalence rate in South Africa stands at 32 cases per 100,000 individuals.
✅ According to the global burden of disease study, the most recent estimate for MS cases in Sub-Saharan Africa hovers around 49,000, with approximately 2,800 new cases arising each year.
✅ The Atlas of MS reports a global estimate of 2.9 million people living with MS, yet it lacks specific data for South Africa.
✅ In terms of demographics, a study found that 71% of South African MS respondents fell within the age group of 30-59 years, with 73% being female and 89% identifying as white.

It’s important to note that MS prevalence rates in South Africa are relatively low compared to other global regions, with most of Africa and Asia reporting rates of less than 5 per 100,000.

Nonetheless, MS remains a substantial burden for affected individuals and their families, prompting ongoing efforts in Africa to enhance disease diagnosis and management.

Can Multiple Sclerosis be cured, and how?

There is currently no cure for Multiple Sclerosis. However, advances in medical research have resulted in the developing of several disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) that can slow disease progression and manage symptoms.

Interferon beta-1a, glatiramer acetate, and newer oral medications such as fingolimod have shown promise in reducing relapse frequency and delaying disability. It is critical to consult with healthcare professionals to develop a personalised treatment plan that meets the needs of each individual.

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Multiple Sclerosis Curability and Management

While Multiple Sclerosis is still an incurable disease, effective management strategies can significantly improve patients’ quality of life. Management frequently involves a multidisciplinary approach that combines pharmacological treatments with lifestyle changes.

Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy are frequently recommended in addition to medication to treat various symptoms.

Medical Aid Schemes in South Africa frequently cover these multidisciplinary treatments, recognising the disease’s complexity and long-term nature.

Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

In this section, we will look at Multiple Sclerosis (MS) symptoms. Understanding these symptoms is critical for early diagnosis and effective disease management.

While each person’s MS manifests differently, there are some common symptoms that healthcare professionals and patients in South Africa should be aware of. The following are some of the common symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis:

✅ Fatigue
✅ Pain
✅ Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction
✅ Numbness or Tingling
✅ Vision Problems
✅ Muscle Weakness and Spasticity
✅ Emotional Changes
✅ Mobility Issues
✅ Cognitive Dysfunction

Fatigue

One of the most common symptoms of MS is fatigue, which affects up to 80% of patients. Unlike regular tiredness, MS-related fatigue can be debilitating, interfering with daily activities and quality of life.

This can be especially difficult for working adults who need to maintain productivity in South Africa’s fast-paced lifestyle. Medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as diet and sleep hygiene are frequently used in management.

Pain

MS often causes chronic pain in multiple areas of the body. Given limited access to pain management resources, especially within rural regions of South Africa, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals for a tailored treatment plan that may incorporate various medications and alternative therapies available.

Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction

Experiencing issues with bladder and bowel control can result in a decrease of quality of life, as well as being an uncomfortable inconvenience. Treatment options usually include medication or surgical procedures, depending on the severity of each case.

Numbness or Tingling

Numbness or tingling sensations in the limbs, face, or fingers are common. These symptoms can be frightening and are usually among the first signs that prompt people to seek medical help.

These symptoms can significantly impair one’s ability to participate fully in South Africa, where outdoor activities such as hiking, and sports are popular. For these sensory disturbances, early diagnosis and treatment are critical.

Vision Problems

MS patients frequently experience vision problems such as blurred or double vision. Optic neuritis, or optic nerve inflammation, is frequently the first symptom. Regular eye examinations and consultations with healthcare providers are required to manage this symptom.

Muscle Weakness and Spasticity

Walking or lifting objects can be quite challenging for individuals facing muscle weakness and spasticity, especially when physical labour is a primary means of earning money.

To help address this issue effectively, healthcare experts often suggest using muscle relaxants and physical therapy interventions to alleviate the problem.

Emotional Changes

MS can cause emotional changes such as depression and anxiety. In some South African communities, the social stigma associated with chronic illnesses can exacerbate these emotional symptoms. Support groups and mental health services are essential components of total MS care.

Mobility Issues

For MS patients, difficulty walking or maintaining balance is a major concern. Assistive devices such as canes or wheelchairs, frequently covered by Medical Aid Schemes, can be beneficial.

Cognitive Dysfunction

Patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) may encounter cognitive difficulties such as memory lapses, lack of focus and problem-solving issues.

Nevertheless, these symptoms can be efficiently treated by taking prescribed medications or undergoing cognitive-behavioural therapy that focuses on managing them effectively.

Multiple Sclerosis Treatment

This section focuses on the various treatment options for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in South Africa. While there is no cure for MS, various treatments can help control symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life.

Understanding these treatments is critical for MS patients and healthcare providers involved in South Africa. Multiple sclerosis can be treated in the following ways:

✅ Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
✅ Lifestyle Modifications
✅ Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs)
✅ Physical Therapy
✅ Pain Management
✅ Corticosteroids
✅ Occupational Therapy
✅ Alternative Therapies

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective approach to managing cognitive difficulties in patients with MS. This invaluable asset has found recognition in South Africa, where mental health services are gaining prominence.

CBT helps individuals deal better with emotional changes and cope effectively with cognitive dysfunction, improving general wellness.

Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle changes are critical in treating Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic autoimmune condition affecting the central nervous system. Food is one of the most important elements; a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean meats can help control symptoms.

The Mediterranean and DASH diets, which are high in fibre and low in saturated fat, are frequently suggested. Another component of MS treatment is exercise.

Walking, swimming, or yoga regularly can enhance mobility and reduce tiredness. Mindfulness and meditation are additional stress management practices that might be effective. These lifestyle modifications are frequently combined with medical therapies to improve patient results.

Disease-Modifying Therapies (DMTs)

The basis of multiple sclerosis treatment lies in Disease-Modifying Therapies, which aim to decelerate the advance of this illness and diminish the occurrences of relapses.

Prevalent drugs such as interferon beta-1a, glatiramer acetate and fingolimod are frequently recommended in South Africa. Due to their coverage by Medical Aid Schemes, their availability has increased extensively.

Nevertheless, one must seek guidance from a healthcare specialist for an individualised plan suited specifically towards them.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is critical in helping MS patients manage mobility issues and muscle spasticity. Maintaining physical function is critical in South Africa, where outdoor activities are an important part of daily life.

Medical Aid Schemes often cover physical therapy sessions, making it a viable option for many South Africans.

Pain Management

In South Africa, physical therapy and occasionally surgery can be used to manage chronic pain associated with MS. The most effective method of treatment involves multiple disciplines working together. Medical Aid Schemes typically provide coverage for these treatments.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids such as methylprednisolone are frequently used to treat acute MS flare-ups. These medications reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms quickly.

Corticosteroids are widely available in South Africa but should only be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects such as hypertension and osteoporosis.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy assists MS patients in adapting to their work and home environments by focusing on daily activities such as cooking, bathing, and writing.

In South Africa’s diverse job market, occupational therapy can especially benefit those in physically demanding or fine-motor skill jobs. Medical Aid Schemes frequently cover this therapy.

Alternative Therapies

More and more South Africans affected by MS are keenly inclined towards alternate forms of therapy like acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements.

Though such modules should not be seen solely in place of medical treatments, they can certainly act as supplementary options to conventional ones.

It is essential for anyone considering these methods to first consult with their healthcare provider before initiating them.

Medical Aid Schemes that Include Benefits for Multiple Sclerosis

Bestmed

Bestmed goes beyond traditional medical aid by providing various value-added services to improve the quality of life for its members.

Does Bestmed cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, according to the Bestmed website, the plan covers multiple sclerosis. The Bestmed MS formulary contains corticosteroids, folic acid & derivatives, immunostimulants, natural opium alkaloids, nitrogen mustard analogues, synthetic disease-modifying medicines, and tricyclic antidepressants.

Bestmed Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Bestmed Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ Beat 1
✅ Beat 2
✅ Beat 3
✅ Beat 4
✅ Pace 1
✅ Pace 2
✅ Pace 3
✅ Pace 4
✅ Rhythm 1
✅ Rhythm 2

Bonitas

Bonitas Medical Aid, with a focus on holistic health, offers a variety of wellness programs in addition to its medical plans.

Does Bonitas cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, multiple sclerosis is covered by Bonitas. Bonitas offers multiple sclerosis benefits with varying levels of coverage. Members with MS must enrol in a chronic illness management program for coverage and benefits.

Bonitas Plans that Cover Multiple Sclerosis

The following Bonitas Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ BonStart
✅ BonStart Plus
✅ Standard
✅ Standard Select
✅ Primary
✅ Primary Select
✅ BonFit Select
✅ BonSave
✅ BonComplete
✅ BonClassic
✅ BonComprehensive
✅ Hospital Standard
✅ BonEssential
✅ BonEssential Select
✅ BonCap

Cape Medical Plan

As a pioneer in the medical aid sector, Cape Medical Plan has set the standard for quality healthcare coverage. Its stellar reputation is well-deserved.

Does Cape Medical Plan cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Cape Medical Plan covers Multiple Sclerosis. The Benefit Options section of the Cape Medical Plan website addresses Multiple Sclerosis.

Cape Medical Plan Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Cape Medical Plan Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ HealthPact Silver
✅ HealthPact Premium
✅ HealthPact Select

CompCare

Quality is guaranteed with CompCare’s medical aid plans. Their stringent screening of healthcare providers ensures members receive the best care.

Does CompCare cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, CompCare covers Multiple Sclerosis. According to the CompCare website, chronic coverage for the 27 Chronic Disease List (CDL) conditions is unlimited with no co-payments or levy if the medication is on the formulary and its price is equal to or less than the product’s reference price.

CompCare Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following CompCare Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ NETWORX
✅ SELFNET
✅ MEDX
✅ UNISAVE
✅ MUMED
✅ SELFSURE
✅ SYMMETRY
✅ DYNAMIX
✅ PINNACLE

Discovery Health

Discovery Health is the gold standard in medical aid services, providing unparalleled coverage and a wide range of healthcare solutions.

Does Discovery Health cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Discovery Health covers Multiple Sclerosis. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is one of 27 illnesses on South Africa’s Chronic Disease List (CDL), making it eligible for prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs).

Discovery Health Plans that Cover Multiple Sclerosis

The following Discovery Health Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ Discovery Health Executive Plan
✅ Discovery Health Classic Comprehensive
✅ Discovery Health Classic Core
✅ Discovery Health Classic Delta Comprehensive
✅ Discovery Health Classic Delta Core
✅ Discovery Health Classic Delta Saver
✅ Discovery Health Classic Priority
✅ Discovery Health Classic Saver
✅ Discovery Health Classic Smart Comprehensive
✅ Discovery Health Classic Smart
✅ Discovery Health Coastal Core
✅ Discovery Health Coastal Saver
✅ Discovery Health Essential Delta Comprehensive
✅ Discovery Health Essential Delta Core
✅ Discovery Health Essential Delta Saver
✅ Discovery Health Essential Dynamic Smart
✅ Discovery Health Essential Priority
✅ Discovery Health Essential Saver
✅ Discovery Health Essential Smart
✅ Discovery Health KeyCare Core
✅ Discovery Health KeyCare Plus
✅ Discovery Health KeyCare Start
✅ Discovery Health KeyCare Start Regional

Fedhealth

Fedhealth’s customised plans allow you to upgrade or downgrade to meet your changing healthcare needs.

Does Fedhealth cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Fedhealth covers Multiple Sclerosis. Members with Multiple Sclerosis must enrol in a chronic disease management program to get coverage and benefits.

Fedhealth Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Fedhealth Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ FlexiFED Savvy
✅ MyFED
✅ FlexiFED 1
✅ FlexiFED 2
✅ FlexiFED 3
✅ FlexiFED 4
✅ Maxima EXEC
✅ Maxima PLUS

Genesis Medical Scheme

Genesis Medical Scheme, focusing on family healthcare, offers special packages that address the medical needs of all family members.

Does Genesis Medical Scheme cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, the Genesis Medical Scheme covers Multiple Sclerosis. Genesis HealthCare institutions offer comprehensive medical and rehabilitation services to individuals with neurological illnesses like Multiple Sclerosis.

Genesis Medical Scheme Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Genesis Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ MED-100
✅ MED-200
✅ MED-200 Plus

Sizwe Hosmed

Sizwe Hosmed has a solid infrastructure and is well-equipped to meet South Africans’ healthcare needs.

Does Sizwe Hosmed cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Sizwe Hosmed covers multiple sclerosis.

Sizwe Hosmed Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Sizwe Hosmed Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ Essential Copper
✅ Silver Hospital
✅ Access Saver-25
✅ Access Saver-15
✅ Gold Ascend
✅ Gold Ascend EDO
✅ Value
✅ Value Core EDO
✅ Platinum Enhanced
✅ Platinum Enhanced EDO
✅ Plus
✅ Titanium Executive

Keyhealth

Keyhealth’s emphasis on clarity and simplicity has made it popular among South Africans.

Does Keyhealth cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Keyhealth covers multiple sclerosis.

Keyhealth Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Keyhealth Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ Essence
✅ Origin
✅ Equilibrium
✅ Silver
✅ Gold
✅ Platinum

Makoti Medical Scheme

Makoti Medical Scheme has distinguished itself as more than just a medical aid provider by emphasising community health.

Does Makoti Medical Scheme cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Makoti Medical Scheme covers multiple sclerosis.

Makoti Medical Scheme Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Makoti Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ Primary Option
✅ Comprehensive Option

Medihelp

Medihelp has become a quality benchmark in the medical aid sector due to its legacy of member satisfaction.

Does Medihelp cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Medihelp covers multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is on the Chronic Disease List (CDL); therefore, all South African medical aid schemes must give state-sanctioned benefits to members with the disease, regardless of their coverage.

Medihelp Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Medihelp Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ MedElect Student
✅ MedVital Elect
✅ MedVital
✅ MedMove!
✅ MedAdd Elect
✅ MedAdd
✅ MedSave
✅ MedElect
✅ MedPrime Elect
✅ MedPrime
✅ MedElite
✅ MedPlus

Medimed Medical Scheme

Medimed is a reputable medical aid provider offering various plans that prioritise your health and well-being.

Does Medimed cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Medimed covers multiple sclerosis.

Medimed Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Medimed Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ Medisave Essential
✅ Alpha
✅ Medisave Standard
✅ Medisave Max

Medshield

Medshield is a leader in medical aid innovation because its data-driven strategy enables personalised healthcare solutions.

Does Medshield cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Medshield covers multiple sclerosis.

Medshield Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Medshield Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ MediCurve
✅ MediPhila
✅ MediSwift
✅ MediValue
✅ MediValue Compact
✅ MediCore
✅ MediPlus Prime
✅ MediPlus Compact
✅ MediSaver
✅ MediBonus
✅ PremiumPlus

Momentum Health

Momentum Health has a reputation for being a reliable medical aid provider because it has always done what it said it would do.

Does Momentum Health cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Momentum Health covers multiple sclerosis.

Momentum Health Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Momentum Health Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ Ingwe
✅ Evolve
✅ Custom
✅ Incentive
✅ Extender
✅ Summit

Suremed

Suremed ensures access to high-quality medical care is always possible thanks to its extensive network of healthcare providers.

Does Suremed cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Suremed covers multiple sclerosis.

Suremed Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Suremed Health Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ Shuttle
✅ Explorer
✅ Navigator
✅ Challenger

Thebemed

Thebemed was one of the first companies in the medical aid industry to offer high-quality care at a price that most people could afford.

Does Thebemed cover Multiple sclerosis?

Yes, Thebemed covers Multiple Sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is covered under Thebemed’s 2024 Combined Benefits.

Thebemed Plans that Cover Multiple sclerosis

The following Thebemed Health Medical Aid Plans provide benefits and cover for Multiple sclerosis:

✅ Universal EDO
✅ Universal
✅ Energy
✅ Fantasy

In Conclusion

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often debilitating disease requiring long-term medical attention. The cost of treatment, including medication and therapy, can be prohibitively expensive.

Recognising the financial and medical severity of MS, many South African Medical Aid Schemes include benefits designed to alleviate the burden on patients and their families.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is MS a medical condition?

Yes, MS is a medical condition that affects the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. It is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the protective myelin sheath that wraps around nerve fibres.

Is multiple sclerosis a PMB condition in South Africa?

Yes, in South Africa, Multiple Sclerosis is a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition. This means that Medical Aid Schemes are legally required to provide this condition with a certain level of care and coverage.

Is multiple sclerosis considered a disability?

Yes, Multiple Sclerosis is a disability, particularly in its advanced stages, when it significantly impairs mobility and cognitive functions. The degree to which it is considered a disability varies from person to person, depending on the severity of the symptoms.

What are the four stages of MS?

Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS), Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS), Secondary Progressive MS (SPMS), and Primary Progressive MS (PPMS) are the four stages of MS. Each stage of the disease has its own set of symptoms, and the disease may or may not progress through all of them.

Does Discovery cover MS?

Yes, Discovery Health covers Multiple Sclerosis under its chronic illness benefit. The specific plan you are enrolled in may have different coverage details.

How do you cope with being diagnosed with MS?

Coping with an MS diagnosis necessitates a multifaceted approach that includes medical treatment, emotional support, and lifestyle changes.

In South Africa, support groups, mental health services, and educational resources are available to help people cope with the emotional and physical challenges of MS.

What is the process for claiming MS-related expenses from Medical Aid Schemes?

To claim MS-related expenses from South African Medical Aid Schemes, you’ll usually need to submit medical bills, invoices, and any necessary supporting documentation to your Medical Aid provider.

Are alternative therapies for MS covered by Medical Aid in South Africa?

Coverage for alternative therapies such as acupuncture or herbal treatments varies across South African Medical Aid Schemes.

How does MS affect life insurance premiums in South Africa?

Because of the increased health risks associated with the condition, having a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis can result in higher life insurance premiums in South Africa. Many factors, including the stage of your MS and overall health, will determine the magnitude of the increase.

Can I get disability grants from the South African government for MS?

Yes, individuals with Multiple Sclerosis may be eligible for a disability grant from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) in South Africa.

Are there specialised MS treatment centres in South Africa?

No, there are not. However, while there are no dedicated MS centres in South Africa, many hospitals and clinics have specialised neurology departments with expertise in treating Multiple Sclerosis.

Which medical aid schemes cover multiple sclerosis in South Africa?

Many medical aid schemes in South Africa, including Discovery Health, Momentum Health, and Bonitas Medical Fund, cover multiple sclerosis. Benefits and coverage may differ depending on the plan and provider.

What are the challenges and opportunities in managing multiple sclerosis in South Africa?

Managing multiple sclerosis in Africa can be difficult due to limited access to healthcare, a lack of disease awareness and education, cultural beliefs, and stigma. However, Africa has opportunities to improve diagnosis, treatment, and support for people with multiple sclerosis.

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Adriaan Schoeman

Adriaan holds an MBA and specializes in medical aid research. With his commitment to perfection, he ensures the accuracy of all data presented on medicalaid.com every three months. When he is not conducting research, Adriaan can be found indulging in his passion for trout fishing amidst nature.