Sizwe Hosmed Essential Copper Plan

Young, healthy, and invincible? You still need backup. The Sizwe Hosmed Essential Copper Plan offers affordable, entry-level medical cover with unlimited GP visits, hospital protection, and day-to-day benefits—all within a cost-effective network. Smart cover for those chasing goals, not doctor's appointments.

Quick Summary

Monthly contributions from R3,023 • Unlimited network GP visits • Hospital cover for emergencies • Maternity & chronic benefits included

Can you afford medical aid on a starter salary? Use our free budget calculator to see how Essential Copper fits into your monthly expenses and take control of your financial life.

What is the Sizwe Hosmed Essential Copper Plan?

The Essential Copper Plan from Sizwe Hosmed Medical Scheme is tailored for young, healthy individuals. This cost-effective starter plan offers the right balance of in-hospital and out-of-hospital benefits, including GP visits, without the financial strain. Because even when you feel invincible, your health still matters.

You're chasing goals, living life on your terms — and medical cover isn't exactly top of mind. But when the unexpected happens — a sudden illness, a sprained ankle, or an emergency, you will want affordable backup that makes sense.

Whether you're starting your first job, building your career, or simply want basic medical protection without breaking the bank, Essential Copper provides the peace of mind you need at a price point that makes sense for young professionals.

Monthly Contributions and Key Information

The table below sets out the Sizwe Hosmed Essential Copper plan contributions across different benefit categories:

Category	Essential Copper	Essential Copper GEMS	Essential Copper POLMED	Essential Copper SAMWU	Essential Copper SALA	Essential Copper SALGBC
Principal Member	R3,023	R2,240	R2,839	R748	R896	R1,136
Adult Dependant	R3,023	R2,240	R2,839	R748	R896	R1,136
Child Dependant	R1,046	R829	R846	R260	R332	R338
Hospital Cover	Unlimited PMB cover at network hospitals
GP Consultations	Unlimited within network; 30% co-pay out of network
Specialist Visits	Up to 3 per family per annum (PMB, on referral)
Acute Medication	Unlimited from network GP; R1,767 per beneficiary from pharmacy
Dental Care	Conservative dentistry covered
Optical Benefits	Every 24 months (Frames R340, Lenses R239-R504)
Maternity Cover	100% Scheme rate within protocols
Chronic Conditions	26 PMB CDL conditions covered
Emergency Services	Europe Assist 24/7
Pre-authorisation	Required for all hospital admissions and specialist visits
Emergency Notification	Within 72 hours of emergency event
Prosthesis Limit	R22,530 per family per annum (PMB only)
Drug & Alcohol Rehab	R14,173 per family per annum (PMB only)
Specialised Radiology	2 scans per beneficiary per annum (MRI/PET/CAT - PMB)
Pharmacy OTC (PAT)	R744 per family
Network Model	Designated service providers required
Gap Cover	Not available on this plan
Waiting Periods	3-month general; 12-month condition-specific

Note: Contribution rates shown reflect 2025 pricing. Special rates apply for qualifying members of GEMS, POLMED, SAMWU, SALA, and SALGBC. Always verify current rates before joining.

Budget Smart: With network-only contributions as low as R748/month for qualifying members, Essential Copper is one of the most affordable comprehensive medical aid options. Use the JustMoney Budget Calculator to see how it fits into your financial plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "network-based" mean?
You must use designated service providers (network GPs, hospitals, pharmacies, specialists) to receive full benefits. Out-of-network care incurs co-payments or isn't covered.

Can I see any GP I want?
Unlimited visits are only covered at network GPs. Out-of-network GP visits incur a 30% co-payment that you pay directly to the doctor.

What if I need a specialist?
You get up to 3 specialist consultations per family per year, limited to PMB conditions. You need a referral from your network GP and pre-authorisation from the scheme.

Are all hospital admissions covered?
Only PMB (Prescribed Minimum Benefit) hospital admissions are covered. Non-PMB procedures may not be covered or may require significant co-payments.

Take Control of Your Financial Health Today

Starting your career means making smart financial decisions—and affordable medical aid is one of them. At JustMoney, we provide the tools and resources you need to take complete control of your financial life.

Free Budget Calculator

Can you afford R3,023 per month for medical aid on a starter salary? Our Budget Calculator helps you:

Track your monthly income and expenses accurately
Identify areas where you can save money
See exactly how much you can allocate to medical aid and other necessities
Plan for future financial goals like emergency funds and savings
Make informed decisions about your healthcare spending
Balance medical aid with other insurance needs and lifestyle expenses

As a young professional, smart budgeting is essential. Use our free Budget Calculator now and discover how Essential Copper fits into your financial picture, along with rent, transport, food, and entertainment.