Can pensioners get Medical Insurance?

As a pensioner, you keep a close eye on your finances, to ensure a comfortable retirement. Here’s some good news for your budget: pensioners can get medical insurance, There are no age restrictions to get medical insurance. 

Pensioners and Medical Insurance 

There are many things to consider when you’re a pensioner looking to join a medical insurance plan. As a pensioner, assessing your health status and healthcare needs is important before comparing medical insurance plans. Consider these important variables:

• Chronic conditions: At this stage of life, you may have developed one or more chronic conditions requiring ongoing management. Take stock of these conditions and their treatment requirements.
• Planned procedures: Are there any surgeries or major medical procedures you anticipate needing in the coming years? Factor these into your medical insurance considerations.
• Doctor visits: Reflect on how frequently you consult your healthcare providers. As a pensioner, you might require more regular check-ups or specialist visits.
• Prescription medications: Many older adults rely on daily or regular medications. Make a list of your prescriptions, as comprehensive coverage for these can significantly affect your choices when it comes to choosing the right medical insurance plan. 
• Specialised care: Consider whether you might need services like physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or home care support in the future.

Once you know your personal healthcare needs, it’s easier to figure out which medical insurance plan is right for you. 

Medical Insurance penalties

Some medical insurance plans apply a range of penalty fees. Often, a late joiner penalty will apply.  ​​A late joiner penalty is an extra monthly fee that is added to your medical cover premium. Late joiner penalties may be imposed when you buy medical insurance after a certain age, have never had medical cover before, or haven’t had medical cover for more than 90 days. Unlike Medical Aid, Get Medical Insurance does not have late joiner penalty fees. You won’t be charged an extra monthly fee, even if it’s your first time getting cover, or if you’ve had a break in coverage. All members, regardless of their age, pay the same monthly fee. 

Medical Insurance waiting periods 

Medical insurance plans often impose waiting periods for specific conditions or plans. A waiting period is a time period during which you, as the policyholder, are not entitled to claim any or certain policy benefit. This is usually the period after taking out a new medical insurance policy. A waiting period is put in place to protect the insurer from people who may join, claim a large amount, and then cancel their cover. With Get Medical Insurance, no waiting periods apply to Accident Cover Policies.There is, however, a one-month general waiting period on new medical insurance policies where no claims will be covered. Get Medical Insurance will cover virtual GP consultations even when you are in a general waiting period, so you will be able to have a consultation with a doctor, if needed. If you have been diagnosed with HIV or Type 2 Diabetes, there is a six-month waiting period before Get Medical Insurance will cover your chronic medication. 

If you're a pensioner considering medical insurance, let’s talk! Get Medical Insurance is here to help. Contact us today to secure your health and peace of mind for your golden years.