Independent benchmarking confirms strong value for AMS members
When belonging to a medical scheme, one of the most important questions is whether you are receiving good value for the contributions you pay.
To help answer that question, AMS commissioned an independent benchmarking analysis by actuarial consulting firm 3ONE. The analysis compared AMS and its benefit options with similar options offered by some of South Africa's largest medical schemes, including Discovery Health, Bonitas, Momentum, Fedhealth, Medshield, Medihelp, Bestmed and Sizwe Hosmed. The findings provide reassuring confirmation that AMS continues to deliver strong value to members across all three benefit options.
Strong value across all options
The analysis used 3ONE's Benefit Value Index (BVI), which measures the value members receive relative to the contributions they pay. Simply put, it assesses how much benefit members can expect to receive for every Rand contributed to their medical scheme.
The results showed that all three AMS options compare favourably with similar options in the market. The AMS Managed Care Plan achieved the highest value score among all comparable options included in the study, while the Standard Care Plan also ranked first in its comparison group. The Value Care Plan delivered better value than most comparable low-cost options available in the market.
Competitive contributions
The benchmarking also found that AMS contributions remain competitive when compared with similar options offered by other medical schemes. The Managed Care and Standard Care Plans were both found to be generally affordable relative to comparable options, while the Value Care Plan remains one of the more affordable options available to members seeking quality cover at a lower contribution level. For many members, this means access to comprehensive benefits without paying significantly more than they would on similar options elsewhere.
Comprehensive benefits matter
Value is about more than contributions alone. The breadth and quality of benefits available to members are equally important. The analysis found that AMS compares strongly in terms of benefit richness. In particular, the Managed Care Plan was noted for offering a comprehensive range of benefits relative to competing options, while the Standard Care Plan performed well in areas such as chronic medicine benefits, oncology cover, advanced radiology and prostheses. These benefits can make a meaningful difference when members need healthcare the most.
A strong foundation for the future
The report also highlighted AMS's strong financial position. Although medical schemes across South Africa continue to face pressures such as rising healthcare costs and an ageing membership profile, AMS remains supported by exceptionally strong reserves that help safeguard the Scheme's long-term sustainability.
What this means for members
The independent benchmarking confirms that AMS continues to provide members with a compelling combination of competitive contributions, comprehensive benefits and strong value for money. Independent assessments like this help ensure that AMS continues to measure itself against the best in the industry and deliver value where it matters most - to our members.
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