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FEDUSA is calling for stronger oversight and better management of GEMS to ensure the scheme remains financially stable and continues to protect its members.
The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) has called for accountability on how South Africa’s Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) is run, in order to protect the scheme’s members.
This follows the revelation that it is facing mounting financial pressure after paying out R67 billion in claims in a single year, more than it collected in contributions.
“It’s not unusual for medical aids to run into deficits. That’s why the legislation provides for reserves that they must all hold, so that they don’t go into bankruptcy. But I think the broader issue is just how GEMS is managed, and here the board of GEMS and the leadership should be held accountable to ensure that the scheme is run efficiently, and that it’s accountable to the members,” says FEDUSA’s Deputy General-Secretary, Ashley Benjamin.
She says there are challenges, but the members should not bear the brunt of those.
“It needs a proper restructuring of benefits, and ensure the viability of GEMS to service members,” she adds.
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