Gems Defends 13.4 Subscription Increase Amid Psa Backlash

The Government Employees Medical Scheme GEMS has defended its decision to raise subscription fees by 13.4 for the upcoming year, following criticism from the Public Servants Association PSA.

The PSA has opposed the increase, arguing that it would effectively reduce the salaries of government employees and make medical aid unaffordable.

GEMS Principal Officer, Dr. Stanley Moloabi, clarified that the increase was based on the projected healthcare funding requirements of GEMS beneficiaries.

One of the key factors driving this increase is our members utilization of benefits, Moloabi explained. Using models to predict future utilization, we determined that, in order to meet our members' healthcare needs for 2025, the average increase needed to be around 13.4.

The PSA has urged GEMS to reconsider the hike, expressing concerns about the financial strain it could place on public servants.