The Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) has become a cornerstone of healthcare provision for public service employees in South Africa. Its development marked a significant moment in healthcare policy, as it was introduced with a firm commitment to equity and affordability, ensuring public sector employees have comprehensive healthcare coverage. Here’s an in-depth look at GEMS, its origins, mission, and what it offers.
- Is GEMS for government employees only?
- How much is the government subsidy on GEMS medical Aid?
- Who is eligible for GEMS?
- Can any person join GEMS medical aid?
- How do I find out if I qualify for GEMS?
- Can I stay on GEMS if I resign?
- Does GEMS cover abortion?
GEMS was officially registered on January 1, 2005, but its story began in 2002 when the Cabinet approved a framework policy to create a restricted medical scheme. This framework, crafted by a collaboration of several government departments—including Public Service and Administration, National Treasury, Health, Education, Correctional Services, and SAPS—focused on three guiding principles: equity, efficiency, and differentiation.
- Equity: All employees should have equal access to basic healthcare benefits under fair remuneration structures, tailored to be affordable.
- Efficiency: Emphasis was placed on cost-effective delivery of healthcare benefits.
- Differentiation: Employees seeking broader coverage can access enhanced benefits, based on their needs.
This scheme represents the government’s commitment to providing accessible, affordable healthcare, positioning itself as an employer that values the well-being of its workforce.
Who is GEMS?
GEMS is dedicated to meeting the healthcare needs of South Africa’s government employees. It offers six benefit options designed to cater to various healthcare needs and financial capabilities:
- Tanzanite One
- Beryl
- Ruby
- Emerald Value
- Emerald
- Onyx
The overarching goal of GEMS is to enable public service employees and their families to access quality healthcare at competitive rates. As of now, nearly two million beneficiaries are enrolled, showcasing the scheme’s success and impact on the healthcare landscape.
GEMS: Supporting Public Health
GEMS has had a significant influence on both public and private healthcare sectors. Its implementation has eased the burden on public healthcare facilities by enrolling members who would otherwise rely on state resources. By incorporating government employees into a medical scheme environment, GEMS not only reduces patient loads in public hospitals but also generates additional revenue streams for healthcare facilities through the Tanzanite One option. This initiative creates a synergy with ongoing efforts by the Department of Health, including National Health Insurance.
The expansion of medical scheme beneficiaries helps to:
- Decrease pressure on public healthcare resources.
- Drive revenue in the private healthcare sector.
- Promote partnerships that enhance overall healthcare delivery.
Mission and Vision
Mission
GEMS aims to provide all members with equitable access to affordable and comprehensive healthcare, prioritizing their well-being.
Vision
The scheme envisions being an excellent, sustainable, and transformative medical scheme, leading advancements in the healthcare industry and aligning with universal healthcare principles.
Core Values and Commitments
GEMS is driven by a set of core values, ensuring members receive reliable, high-quality service.
1. Collaboration
GEMS fosters a culture of collaboration, keeping members well-informed about activities and changes in services. The scheme communicates openly, particularly when addressing members’ healthcare needs.
2. Member Value
The organization values dependability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. It is committed to retaining members, adapting to their evolving needs, and maintaining active engagement.
3. Excellence
Aiming for high performance, GEMS consistently delivers on its goals and strives to exceed member expectations.
4. Innovation
The scheme encourages innovative thinking, cost-control strategies, and practical risk-taking to enhance service delivery. Continuous improvement remains a priority.
5. Integrity
Trustworthiness and professionalism define GEMS. It stands firmly against fraud and corruption, fosters transparency, and takes responsibility for its actions. The scheme also actively supports the communities it serves.
How to Contact GEMS
For any inquiries or support, GEMS provides various contact options:
- General Enquiries:
- Call: 086 000 4367 (Mon-Fri: 08h00 – 17h00, Sat: 08h00 – 12h00)
- Email: enquiries@gems.gov.za
- Post: Private Bag X782, CPT, 8000
- Fax: 086 100 4367
- Emergency Number: 080 044 4367 (24/7)
- Healthcare Provider Enquiries: 086 043 6777 (Mon-Fri: 09h00 – 16h00)
- Confidential Fraud Hotline: 080 021 2202
- Email: gems@thehotline.co.za (Mon-Fri: 09h00 – 16h00)
- HIV/AIDS Support: 086 043 6736
- Send a ‘please call me’ to 083 843 6764
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.