A visit to hospital is often daunting in terms of what to expect regarding one’s treatment. The same can be said in terms of knowing one’s finances. We have therefore provided some information that may assist you to understand hospital costs and the type of common charges that the hospital, doctors or your medical aid scheme or insurer may apply.
About Your Account
A typical hospital account is made up of the following charges:
- Accommodation
- Theatre Time (where applicable)
- Pharmacy Stock (used in the unit and in theatre)
- Equipment
Accomodation
This refers to the use of general units, specialised units (e.g. CCU or High Care etc.) as well as private rooms.
Theatre Time
This refers to the charge per minute for the time spent in theatre during an operation.
Pharmacy Stock
This refers to any medication or consumables used during your stay in the unit or during your procedure in theatre.
Equipment
This refers to the use of any equipment during your treatment in the unit or the operating theatre. Examples of equipment used in hospital include the use of endoscopes, monitors, ventilators, etc.
Possible payments required at the hospital:
- Co-payments and Deductibles
These are charges that are levied by your medical aid in accordance with your medical aid rules or the rules that may apply to your particular plan/option of the medical aid. The hospital is required to collect these amounts on admission. Patients are encouraged to enquire about these charges from the medical aid when obtaining the authorisation. - Take Home Medication
Medicine to take home is prescribed by your doctor and the funding thereof is determined by your medical aid. You will be advised during pre-admission, on admission or upon discharge if your medical aid will pay for any Take Home Medication or if you are required to settle this payment. - Exclusions
Some products or treatment relating to your admission may not be covered by your medical aid. Please confirm this with your medical aid when authorisation is obtained. - Prosthesis Limit
The choice of prosthesis and the provider is determined by your doctor. Please discuss the prosthesis limit and any concerns in this regard with your doctor.