Are you medically covered in case of an emergency?

Accidents happen when you least expect them. Unfortunately, they can leave you in a very sticky situation, especially if you’re not fully covered by a reliable medical aid. However, it’s not something you think about on a daily basis, in which case you may not be aware of the possible risks you’re facing.

When choosing a medical aid, ensure the following trauma incidents are covered:

·         Stab wounds

·         Vehicle accidents

·         Near drowning

·         Burns

·         Gunshot wounds

·         Head trauma

Why it’s important to have medical coverage in case of an emergency:

1.      You don’t have time to wait for a government ambulance

When in an accident, a private ambulance will most likely show up to assist. They will request some form of deposit or co-payment, depending on your medical aid option. If you don’t have a reliable medical aid and you don’t have enough money to pay for the ambulance, you’ll end up at the nearest state government hospital.

2.      You don’t want to be left outside the hospital

If you don’t have a reliable medical aid to back you in emergency situations, most private hospitals won’t allow you to enter unless you’ve paid a deposit, usually a percentage of your total estimate. Thus, if you don’t have that kind of money, you will be left at the door or taken to a government hospital.

3.      You don’t want to receive third-class treatment

Unfortunately, government hospitals are over-populated and under-staffed, which means the quality of treatment will be poor in comparison with certain private hospitals,  in which case you may not receive the proper treatment you need for weeks or even months afterwards.

4.      You don’t want to pay a large sum of money upfront

Generally speaking, healthcare treatment is expensive. If you don’t belong to a reliable medical aid you’ll have to pay large sums of money in order to receive the treatment you need – whether upfront or after treatment is administered.

5.      You don’t want to wait to receive treatment

In an emergency situation, you want to be helped as soon as possible. Not having to wait in line until someone notices you. Unfortunately, that’s often the case when administered into a government hospital. It could mean life or death in an emergency situation.

Have a look at Medihelp’s comprehensive medical aid options for 2016, and ensure you’re covered in case of an emergency.