How we support our members during the toughest health challenges
At Anglo Medical Scheme, we believe in walking alongside you, through every step of your healthcare journey. We understand that some paths are more challenging than others, and it's during these times that we strive to provide comfort, dignity and personalised care.
Today, we would like to inform you about our Advanced Illness Benefit (AIB) on the Standard Care Plan and Managed Care Plan - a beacon of support enhancing palliative care for members. This benefit is thoughtfully designed to provide compassionate and comprehensive palliative care to members navigating the advanced stages of cancer. Our aim is to ensure that you and your families receive the support, personalized care and necessary services during these challenging times, particularly during end-of-life care.
Key features of the Advanced Illness Benefit
Dedicated care coordinator
Members authorised for the AIB receive support from a dedicated care coordinator - a registered nurse who collaborates with the patient, their family and healthcare providers.
Personalised support and counselling
We provide access to both patients and their families, offering emotional and mental health support during challenging times.
Comprehensive home-based services
Services include medical care by palliative-care-trained doctors, registered nurses, rental of home oxygen concentrators, pain management, psychosocial support and more.
Specialised telephonic support
Patients, or their nominated persons, can contact 011 529 6797 during working hours for assistance related to AIB authorisations, oxygen, or benefit and claims-related enquiries.
Funding and billing
AMS funds healthcare services provided by the multidisciplinary team at an agreed rate and care plan. Palliative care must be accessed from registered providers with valid Board of Healthcare Funders' (BHF) registration numbers.
ICD-10 codes requirement
Accounts for palliative care must include relevant and correct ICD-10 codes to facilitate prompt payment.
Nomination for assistance
The patient should nominate a person to assist with membership and benefit management by completing the 'Permission to make certain information available to a thirdparty' form, available in the Info Centre on https://www.angloms.co.za/portal/ams/find-documents
Accessing the Advanced Illness Benefit
We are here to make the process as easy as possible for you. If you are on the Standard Care Plan or Managed Care Plan and you or your dependant has advanced cancer, you will need to be registered by your doctor. The application form can be obtained from our Call Centre on 0860 222 633. While access is voluntary, it is subject to clinical entry criteria, and palliative care is specifically for those in advanced stages where curative treatment has ceased. We will guide you every step of the way.
Contact information
For further information on the Advanced Illness Benefit, feel free to call us on 0860 222 633 or email us at AIB@angloms.co.za We're here to support you.
Published July 2024