Discovery Health has announced that medical aid premiums will increase by up to 7.9% in 2026, with the changes set to take effect from April 1, 2026, rather than the usual January increase. The weighted average increase for members will be 7.2%, while specific plans such as KeyCare, Executive, Comprehensive, and Coastal will see premiums rise by 7.9%. Other plans will see a 6.9% increase, with the Active Smart plan remaining unchanged at 0%.
Despite the substantial premium increases, which exceed the current inflation rate of 3.3%, members will save approximately R1.5 billion due to the postponement, translating to around R1,100 per membership. For example, a family of four on the Classic Comprehensive plan could save over R5,100 due to the deferred increases.
Discovery Health’s solvency position remains robust, projected to exceed 30%, driven by better-than-expected claims experiences and returns on investments. CEO Ron Whelan noted that this financial strength allows the Scheme to offer members financial relief while maintaining long-term sustainability.
The announcement comes amidst a trend in the industry, as other medical schemes, including Bonitas and Medshield, have also announced above-inflation increases. Bonitas reported a weighted average increase of 8.8%, while Medshield’s increase was set at 7.5%. Bestmed announced a more modest increase of 6.8%.
The Council of Medical Schemes (CMS) recently recommended that medical schemes limit their contribution increases to inflation rates, suggesting reasonable hikes should be between 5.4% and 6.8%. However, Discovery’s increases significantly surpass these recommendations.
In addition to the premium increases, Discovery introduced two new enhancements for 2026: the Smart Saver Series, focusing on young families, and enhanced Personal Health Fund benefits, allowing adult members to accumulate funds by completing health-related tasks.
Overall, while members face higher premiums, the strategic deferment and new offerings aim to provide some financial relief and support for health needs.