The beginning of GEMS was a historic moment when in 2002, Cabinet approved a framework policy on a restricted (closed) medical scheme for further development by an interdepartmental working group (departments of Public Service and Administration, National Treasury, Health, Education, Correctional Services and SAPS).
The approved framework policy centered on the principles of equity, efficiency and differentiation:
Equity where employees have equal access to the most extensive set of equal basic benefits under equitable remuneration structures, subject to affordability. Efficiency regarding the costs and delivery of benefits. Differentiation, where employees choosing more extensive cover have equal access to higher benefits subject to their needsGovernment's commitment to an equitable and affordable medical scheme
Cabinet gave the development and implementation of GEMS intense consideration, relying on substantial research and data analyses. The implementation of GEMS is a positive step that positions government as an employer of choice that truly cares for the health and wellbeing of its employees
The implementation of GEMS also supports the work performed by the Department of Health on National Health Insurance and the establishment of the Risk Equalisation Fund.
GEMS achieves unique synergies with the work currently being performed by the Department of Health. Nearly two million beneficiaries have already been enrolled on GEMS, through the promotion of greater access to the employer subsidy. The introduction of these additional beneficiaries into the medical scheme environment has resulted in a reduced public sector patient load and a reduction in the demand on the public sector's resources. By enrolling members on our Tanzanite One option, additional revenue streams for public healthcare facilities and the public private partnerships will be created.
More medical scheme beneficiaries and increased revenue that will be generated in the private healthcare sector; and a reduction in the pressure on many of our public sector facilities that so many of our citizens are dependent on for the provision of essential healthcare services. GEMS is committed to delivering access to equitable, comprehensive and sustainable benefits to all public service employees.
To provide all members with equitable access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare; promoting member wellbeing.
An excellent, sustainable and effective medical scheme that drives transformation in the healthcare industry, aligned with the principles of universal healthcare coverage
At GEMS we believe that every one of our members matter. That is why we have prepared the member newsletter to focus on your specific needs.