MoneyMarketing – 13th August 2025

Rising healthcare costs are placing increasing pressure on South African employees, even those with medical aid. Unexpected medical expense shortfalls for hospital stays, surgeries, or specialist care can leave individuals facing bills in the tens of thousands – leading to financial stress that affects their health, morale and productivity in the workplace.

Bridging the gap between cover and care

Medical aids often don’t cover the full cost of treatment in private healthcare. The result? Employees are left covering the difference themselves, sometimes with serious financial consequences. Many delay treatment, endure chronic pain, or turn to debt to fund care – all of which take a toll on their performance at work.

Group gap cover offers an effective, affordable solution. It closes the gap between what medical schemes pay and what private healthcare providers charge, covering shortfalls, co-payments, sub-limits, and even extending to extras like trauma counselling or additional cancer benefits, depending on the provider.

With this type of protection, employees can seek the care they need, when they need it, without the added anxiety of high out-of-pocket expenses. This improves recovery time and job performance.

A strategic benefit for forward-thinking brokers

For brokers, group gap cover is a powerful tool to help employers enhance their employee wellness strategies. It goes beyond compliance, providing real value in a competitive market.

But for maximum impact, gap cover needs to be aligned with the existing medical aid options within an organisation. By tailoring solutions to the workforce’s specific needs – whether that’s by life stage, income level or healthcare usage – brokers can deliver smart, relevant benefits that boost their and client satisfaction.

Meeting real needs in a tough economic climate

Medical inflation is rising faster than general inflation, placing further strain on both employers and employees. Many companies have been forced to downgrade their medical aid contributions, leaving workers more exposed to risk. Group gap cover offers a cost-effective way to address this challenge. With lower premiums, relaxed underwriting, and often no waiting periods, it allows employers to offer meaningful protection without the expense of upgrading medical aid plans – many of which still don’t cover all costs. It’s also tax-efficient and simple to administer via payroll.

Supporting recruitment, retention and reputation

In a highly competitive job market, offering group gap cover as part of a total rewards package sends a strong message: this company values its people. In industries where employee churn is high, the impact of showing genuine care can be significant.

Today’s candidates are looking for more than a salary. They want security, support and a sense of being looked after. Providing financial protection during medical emergencies builds loyalty, fosters trust, and strengthens long-term employee engagement.

More than a benefit – a business advantage

Group gap cover delivers where it matters most – supporting health, financial wellbeing and peace of mind. At the same time, it helps businesses maintain productivity, reduce absenteeism, and enhance their reputation as caring employers.

As economic pressures mount, solutions like group gap cover stand out for their practicality, affordability and impact. It’s not just a tick-box benefit – it’s a smart investment in your people and your business.

Group Gap Cover South Africa: Bridging the Healthcare Cost Gap

 

What is Gap Cover?

 

Client Testimonials

BEST INSURANCE PRODUCT I HAVE EVER PURCHASED.  Have claimed numerous times and always been paid in full in a short space of time. No drama or fuss of insurer looking for reasons not to pay.  I have already recommended Turnberry Gap Cover to my family, friends and colleagues, and will continue to do so.  Happy to have my name used for a product that I highly recommend.  Fran Davidson 

We are very happy Turnberry customers. Turnberry has assisted us with claims payments for 2 spinal operations for just under R200k within a year. We have paid the Doctors and they were stunned with the quick claims payments to them. The claims Assessing team is SO Professional with a great Claims Manager. Thank you for your effective, quality and quick turn-around-time. We will continue to tell everyone about Turnberry.  Thank you Henriette & Martin