w.mekhoe@medicalschemes.com (Wellington Mekhoe) h.eybers@medicalschemes.com (Henry Eybers) Council for Medical Schemes en-za http://www.medicalschemes.com/ RSS FEEDS http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Jitbit RSS Feed Creator 20 Jan 2009 09:47:09 +0200 http://www.medicalschemes.com/rss.xml http://www.medicalschemes.com/imgs/logo.png The PMB Code of Conduct 2017 has been finalised and is available for public comment. Comments should be submitted by 31 January 2018. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular74of2017.pdf 28 Nov 2017 13:57:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in open medical schemes for the year 2018. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular73of2017.pdf 27 Nov 2017 12:36:00 +0200 Confirmation of the Amalgamation between Discovery Health Medical Scheme and the University of Witwatersrand Medical Aid Fund. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular72of2017.pdf 24 Nov 2017 16:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is inviting stakeholders to a meeting to discuss nutrition in the palliative care setting. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular71of2017.pdf 23 Nov 2017 17:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical schemes has published its proposed levies on medical schemes for 2018/19 in the Government Gazette on 17 November 2017. To view the general notice and the CMS consolidated budget, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular70of2017.pdf 20 Nov 2017 16:30:00 +0200 The PMB Code of Conduct 2017 has been finalised and is available for public comment. Comments should be submitted by the end of February 2018. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/PMBCodeofConduct2017.pdf 16 Nov 2017 11:29:00 +0200 Adjustment to fees payable to Brokers with effect from 1 January 2018. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular69of2017.pdf 15 Nov 2017 10:15:00 +0200 The Executive Committee of Council approved accreditation of administrators and managed care organisations To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular68of2017.pdf 14 Nov 2017 16:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) publishes the draft technical guideline document (Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return Technical Guideline for the preparation of data Version 6.0) for completing the utilisation section of the Annual Statutory Return (ASR). You are requested to submit your comments on the draft specification document to the CMS on before 30 November 2017. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular67of2017.pdf 14 Nov 2017 15:35:00 +0200 This circular serves to inform all stakeholders that the 2017 SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide has been published. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular66of2017.pdf 06 Nov 2017 13:58:00 +0200 Pancreatic cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer mortality in developed countries, and one of the most fatal cancers across the world. Globally, it is the seventh leading cause of cancer death in men and women, causing more than 300 000 deaths annually. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMSScript9of2017.pdf 03 Nov 2017 09:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalized the 2017 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 3. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular65of2017.pdf 13 Oct 2017 15:48:00 +0200 Minimum data specifications with regard to Epilepsy and Parkinson Disease published. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular64of2017%20(ID%20632608).pdf 13 Oct 2017 07:48:00 +0200 Colorectal cancer refers to cancer of the colon and the rectum. The colon is the large intestine and the rectum is the lower part of colon. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most common cause of death. It represents 9.4% of all cancers in men and 10.1% of cancers affecting women. In South Africa, colon cancer is ranked as the fifth most common type of cancer. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMS%20Script%208-2017.pdf 11 Oct 2017 07:48:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, released its Annual Report for 2016/17. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease14Of2017.pdf 10 Oct 2017 17:12:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is in the process of enhancing the standard guidelines which are published on our website. We invite all medical schemes and interested parties to provide our Office with comments. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular62of2017.pdf 02 Oct 2017 15:42:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) published its quarterly report for the period ended 31 March 2017 today. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QRfor31March2017.pdf 28 Sep 2017 12:42:00 +0200 The Acting Registrar of Medical Schemes has approved the proposed merger between Discovery Health Medical Scheme and University of Witwatersrand Staff Medical Aid Fund. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular60of2017.pdf 20 Sep 2017 12:42:00 +0200 Induction Broker Training Programmes for 2017 are postponed. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular59of2017.pdf 08 Sep 2017 16:05:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes hereby published the PMB definition guidelines for early stage colon and rectal cancer To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/PMB%20Definition%20Project/BenDefiEarlyStageColonRectal04092017.pdf 04 Sep 2017 14:19:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes hereby published the PMB definition guidelines for early and metastatic colorectal cancer To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/PMB%20Definition%20Project/BenDefMetastaticColonRectalCancer04092017.pdf 04 Sep 2017 14:16:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is collaborating with the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) to collect Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Tuberculosis (TB) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) data in the private sector, or in the population covered by medical schemes. Medical schemes, administrators and managed care organisations are hereby requested to submit HIV, TB and STI indicators thorough the Annual Statutory Return Healthcare Utilisation System as described in the attached circular by no later than 28 September 2017. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular58of2017.pdf 01 Sep 2017 15:25:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes wishes to provide clarity with regards to the capturing of PMSA investment information for the quarterly returns. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/PMSAdisclosure25082017.pdf 25 Aug 2017 12:31:00 +0200 A corneal ulcer is a painful open sore on the cornea that can cause loss of vision and even blindness. A corneal ulcer appears as a grey to white cloudy or translucent area on the normally transparent cornea. Corneal ulcers may sometimes be too small to see without sufficient magnification and lighting. Corneal ulcers are included in the prescribed minimum benefits (PMB) level of care. This article focuses on the condition, and the relevant PMB that members are entitled to. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMSScript7-2017.pdf 15 Aug 2017 16:07:00 +0200 The SAICA Code of Professional Conduct (SAICA Code) was updated in December 2016 to include ethics requirements and guidance to assist members and associates in dealing with non-compliance with laws and regulations (NOCLAR). Sections 225 and 360 of the SAICA Code set out the professional accountant’s responsibilities in responding to NOCLAR or suspected NOCLAR. These sections are effective as of 15 July 2017. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular57of2017.pdf 15 Aug 2017 15:47:00 +0200 On 6 June 2017 the Constitutional Court rendered its judgement that personal medical savings account liabilities do not need to be treated separately or differently from any other liabilities of the scheme and that the scheme is the right holder of the funds. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular56of2017.pdf 15 Aug 2017 13:54:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to inform all medical schemes that applications for auditor approvals for the 2017 financial year are now open. Details regarding the applications are available on the CMS website www.medicalschemes.com. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular55of2017.pdf 15 Aug 2017 13:43:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalised the 2017 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 2. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular54of2017.pdf 11 Aug 2017 15:50:00 +0200 Minimum data specifications with regard to Multiple Sclerosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis published. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular53Of2017.pdf 10 Aug 2017 16:37:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is inviting stakeholders to make submissions for the benefit definitions of gynaecology oncology conditions. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular52of2017.pdf 07 Aug 2017 13:16:00 +0200 It has come to the attention of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), that there appears to be a narrative in the industry that is attributed to the CMS to the effect that the regulator is going to close down medical schemes that have less than 6000 principal members in terms of Regulation 2(3) read in line with Section 24 (2) of the Medical Schemes Act. This narrative needs to be understood in a broader context of and as part of the discourse that examines the consolidation of the fragmented health risk pools in both the public and the private sectors, as we move from the current dual healthcare system to the National Health Insurance (NHI) dispensation. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular51Of2017.pdf 04 Aug 2017 13:16:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby wish to inform relevant stakeholders about the pending liquidation of the Community Medical Aid Scheme (COMMED) in terms of Section 53 of the Medical Schemes Act, No. 131 of 1998. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease13Of2017.pdf 04 Aug 2017 09:02:00 +0200 The Executive Committee of Council approved accreditation of managed care organisations. For more information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular50Of2017.pdf 02 Aug 2017 17:10:00 +0200 2017 Induction Trustee Training. For more information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular49Of2017.pdf 31 Jul 2017 16:43:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has published the draft PMB definition guideline for gastric or intestinal ulcers with haemorrhage or perforation. Stakeholders are requested to provide their comments by the 16th of August 2017 to pmbprojects@medicalschemes.com. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/PMB%20Definition%20Project/DraftPMBdefinitionGastricUlcers2017.pdf 21 Jul 2017 09:15:00 +0200 Following receipt of numerous requests from the public to provide clarity on the implications of the recent Constitutional Court judgment regarding the correct accounting treatment of medical schemes members’ personal savings accounts (MSA); the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would hereby like to provide an explanation on how scheme members with a medical personal savings account are affected by the ruling. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/pressRelease12of2017.pdf 14 Jul 2017 09:50:00 +0200 Ear infections are amongst the most commonly diagnosed conditions by healthcare providers. Roughly half of all infants will have had at least one ear infection by their first birthday. By age three, up to 90 percent of children would have had an ear infection. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMSScript6-2017.pdf 13 Jul 2017 10:20:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to inform medical schemes statutory auditors and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) advisors that the online Authorisation Portal is now available on the CMS website. Applications for audit firms, individual auditors and IFRS advisors who would like to be authorised for the 2017 financial year are now open. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular46of2017.pdf 12 Jul 2017 14:37:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to provide medical schemes with guidance on benefit changes and contribution increases for the 2018 benefit year. The link to the document is called Spreadsheet for submission of changes for 2018. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular45of2017.pdf 11 Jul 2017 15:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to clarify Phase 2 of the 3 phase auditor authorization application process (Authorization of Individual auditors and IFRS advisors) set out in Circular 31 of 2016. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular44of2017.pdf 07 Jul 2017 12:03:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Scheme (CMS) has confirmed the proposed merger between Momentum Health and Metropolitan Medical Scheme. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular43of2017.pdf 04 Jul 2017 16:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes would like to inform stakeholders that the consultative meetings on the review of the Prescribed Minimum Benefits will resume during the month of July. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular42of2017.pdf 04 Jul 2017 15:40:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) is currently in the process of enhancing the format of the Annual Statutory Return for the 2017 financial year. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular41of2017.pdf 30 Jun 2017 15:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and preparers of statutory returns to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2016 Annual Financial Statements and Statutory Returns. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular40of2017.pdf 20 Jun 2017 13:11:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published a notice in the Government Gazette (Notice 435 of 2017) dated 9 June 2017 whereby interested persons are invited to make written representations regarding the Registrar of Medical Schemes' intention to declare certain practices relating to the activities of medical schemes, as irregular or undesirable practices. This is in line with the provisions of Section 7 of the Financial Institutions (Protection of Funds) Act, read together with section 61 of the Medical Schemes Act, No. 131 of 1998 (the MS Act). To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular39of2017.pdf 13 Jun 2017 16:23:00 +0200 Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is a Chronic Autoimmune Neuromuscular condition that causes weakness in certain muscles of the body. MG is caused by an error in the transmission of nerve impulses to the muscles. In MG the immune system makes antibodies that mistakenly attack the connections between nerves and muscles preventing muscles from contracting and resulting in weakness. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMSScript5Of2017.pdf 12 Jun 2017 10:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has become aware of a communique advising private hospitals and pharmacies to treat beneficiaries of the Community Medical Aid Scheme (COMMED) as private patients, following the placement of the scheme under provisional curatorship. This approach is incorrect, as it places beneficiaries at a disadvantaged position. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease10Of2017.pdf 09 Jun 2017 14:20:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has noted the Constitutional Court judgement on the appeal matter brought by Genesis Medical Scheme against the Registrar of Medical Schemes and the CMS. The ruling in favor of Genesis Medical Scheme that funds in medical scheme members’ personal medical savings accounts (PMSA) can be treated as assets of a medical scheme, has huge implications for members of schemes who have benefit options that include a savings account. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease9Of2017.pdf 08 Jun 2017 13:00:00 +0200 On Wednesday, 31 May 2017 Council met to consider amongst others, all the demarcation exemption applications submitted in terms of Clause 7.1 (Stage 1) of the Guideline Framework: Framework for Exemption of Providers of Indemnity products that conduct the business of a medical scheme (Exemption Framework), for exemption from the provisions of the Medical Schemes Act, 131 of 1998 (the Act). All those whose applications for exemption have been granted will be required to submit a substantive application in terms of Stage 2 of the Exemption Framework, within 30 days after receiving due notification. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular38Of2017.pdf 08 Jun 2017 11:00:00 +0200 Attached find Press release on the CMS’ withdrawal of accreditation of STRATA Healthcare Management (PTY) LTD, as a managed care organisation. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease7of2017.pdf 05 June 2017 8:52:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalised the 2017 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 1. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular37of2017.pdf 02 June 2017 7:52:00 +0200 Accredited Skills Programme in Centurion. This communique serves to remind you that the Council for Medical Schemes together with the Institute of Health Risk Managers (IHRM), is offering another SAQA accredited four-day Trustee Skills Training Programme targeted towards medical schemes’ Board of Trustees members and Principal Officers. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular36of2017.pdf 31 May 2017 14:45:00 +0200 Minimum data specifications with regard to Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis published. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular35of2017.pdf 24 May 2017 13:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby notifies interested parties of the approved exposition document for the proposed merger between Momentum Health and Metropolitan Medical Scheme. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular34of2017.pdf 17 May 2017 14:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has been requested by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to invite its stakeholders to a symposium on Global Fees. The invitation is attached. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular33of2017.pdf 12 May 2017 14:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to update stakeholders on the status of the prescribed minimum benefits (PMB) review meetings. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular32of2017.pdf 12 May 2017 09:15:00 +0200 According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) age related macular degeneration is the third cause of blindness globally. This edition of the CMScript will focus on the degeneration of the macula in the eye. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMSScript4of2017.pdf 12 May 2017 08:52:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has collaborated with The Global Platform for Intellectual Property (TGPIP) to develop the Governance and Compliance Assessment Instrument (GCI) for Medical Schemes. The GCI is an assessment platform developed by the TGPIP, and comprises compliance guidelines developed by the CMS as well as governance principles developed by the Institute of Directors in Southern Africa (IoDSA) to measure the level of governance and compliance by the Board of Trustees (BoT) of medical schemes. The GCI was intended to be the mechanism for a complete, credible and standardised process that facilitates better governance and compliance management by the BoT, as well as promoting transparency and accountability towards the schemes’ beneficiaries and the CMS. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular31Of2017.pdf 11 May 2017 17:21:00 +0200 The Executive Committee of Council approved accreditation of administrators and managed care organisations http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular30of2017.pdf 09 May 2017 14:01:00 +0200 The Council for Medical schemes has published its imposition notice of levies on medical schemes for 2017/18 in the Government Gazette on 21 April 2017, to view the general notice and the CMS consolidated budget click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular29Of2017.pdf 21 Apr 2017 16:41:00 +0200 South Africa is still heavily affected by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections. More than 15% of the country’s population aged 15–49 years are living with the disease. This CMScript focuses on HIV infections in adults. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript32017.pdf 19 Apr 2017 09:12:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry would like to once again encourage members of medical schemes to make their voices heard by participating in their medical scheme's Annual General Meeting (AGM). To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease6Of2017.pdf 12 Apr 2017 16:36:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby invites stakeholders to the PMB Review consultative meetings. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular28Of2017.pdf 12 Apr 2017 16:35:00 +0200 Advanced Broker Training in PE, Cape Town and Durban. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular27Of2017.pdf 11 Apr 2017 14:41:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to welcome all interested parties to provide suggested changes/input to the 2017 SAICA Accounting Guide. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular26Of2017.pdf 11 Apr 2017 10:39:00 +0200 Accredited Skills Programme for Board of Trustees. To read more, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular25Of2017.pdf 04 Apr 2017 15:34:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has revised the authorisation standards for statutory auditors of medical schemes and IFRS advisors for 2017 financial year. To read more, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/AuthStds.pdf 31 Mar 2017 17:07:00 +0200 On 1 April 2017 the long awaited Demarcation Regulations, as well as the new definition of the ‘business of a medical scheme’, will come into effect. For the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), it is all systems go to monitor compliance with the Regulations. To read more, please click the link above. https://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease05.pdf 31 Mar 2017 16:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), is pleased with the High Court judgment on the defamation matter brought against it by the Genesis medical scheme. “The judgment by the High Court bolsters the CMS’s commitment to protect the interest of members of medical schemes at all times”, said Acting Chief. Executive " Registrar for the Council for Medical Schemes Dr Sipho Kabane. To read more, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressReleaseCMS4.pdf 29 Mar 2017 15:34:00 +0200 World Tuberculosis Day is commemorated on 24 March every year. The theme for 2017 is "Unite to end TB and HIV". TB is one of the top 10 causes of death in the world, ranking above HIV and Malaria. A total number of 1.8 million people died from TB in 2015. An estimated 10.4 million new cases of TB were recorded globally in 2015. Sixty percent (60 %) of these cases were recorded in India, Indonesia, China, Nigeria, Pakistan and South Africa. To read more, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript2Of2017.pdf 24 Mar 2017 15:34:00 +0200 Circular 22 referring to the Health Talk invitation scheduled to take place on Monday 24 April 2017 is hereby withdrawn with immediate effect. To read more, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular24Of2017.pdf 22 Mar 2017 16:50:00 +0200 The Research and Monitoring Unit in conjunction with the Benefits Management Unit published a circular on Evaluation of contribution increase assumptions for 2017. The analysis show that the weighted total cost assumption increase for 2017 is higher than the weighted total cost assumption increase for 2016. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular23of2017.pdf 22 Mar 2017 15:10:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is inviting stakeholders to make submissions for the benefit definitions of lung cancer and palliative care. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular21of2017.pdf 16 Mar 2017 11:35:00 +0200 This Circular is intended to clarify why CMS is not in a position to grant exemptions from the immigration requirement that foreign students in South Africa must have a medical cover with a South African registered medical scheme. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular20Of2017.pdf 16 Mar 2017 09:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has, in consultation with the Financial Services Board, National Treasury and the Department of Health, concluded an Exemption Framework, which serves as a guideline to providers of indemnity products that conduct business of a medical scheme who wish to apply for exemption in terms of section 8(h) of the Medical Schemes Act. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular19Of2017.pdf 15 Mar 2017 17:11:00 +0200 This circular provide the agenda and final arrangements of the PMB Code of Conduct Meeting on 24 March 2017. For more details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular17Of2017.pdf 07 Mar 2017 10:42:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has published the draft PMB definition guidelines for colorectal cancer. Stakeholders are requested to provide their comments by the 20th of March 2017 to pmbprojects@medicalschemes.com. To read the documents, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Extras/PMB_Definition_Links_20170303.pdf 03 Mar 2017 15:03:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby wishes to distribute the attached Circular issued by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), regarding an Online Renewal and Fee Payment Portal developed by the organization. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular16of2017.pdf 02 Mar 2017 11:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby invites stakeholders’ to a PMB code of conduct workshop. The aim of the workshop is to reconstitute the PMB code of conduct committee as well as consider proposed amendments to the 2010 version of the document. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular15of2017.pdf 01 Mar 2017 15:55:00 +0200 All the Stakeholders of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) are hereby notified that the CMS will be performing a critical uninterruptable power supply (UPS) replacement on Saturday, 04 March 2017. There is a possibility that the CMS servers may be down from 09:00 to 17:00 as a result of the replacement exercise. Should this be the case, we expect all services to be back to normal by 17:00 on the same day. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular14of2017.pdf 01 Mar 2017 12:44:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) will be hosting a one day consultative advanced broker training workshop for accredited healthcare brokers. To read more, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular13Of2017.pdf 28 Feb 2017 16:03:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) publishes the technical guideline document (Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return Technical Guideline for the preparation of data Version 5.1) for completing the utilisation section of the Annual Statutory Return (ASR). The Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return system will go live on 1 March 2017. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular12Of2017.pdf 28 Feb 2017 15:44:00 +0200 Medical Schemes are required to submit the date and area in which they intend to hold their scheme meetings, to the CMS by 28 March 2017. The purpose for requesting information regarding the dates prior to the schemes issuing the AGM notifications, is to allow the CMS ample time to publish such information on social media platforms as a way of encouraging medical scheme members to participate in such meetings. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular11Of2017.pdf 28 Feb 2017 13:21:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has finalised the 2016 Annual Statutory Return online system for the submission of financial data, which is now available on our website. It should be noted that the Word document will only be available at a later stage, i.e. schemes will currently not be able to generate draft or final documents before then. Schemes will be notified of the availability of this document. Schemes are referred to the 2016 Annual Statutory Return Help File , for detailed guidance on the completion of the Annual Statutory Return. Please note that the deadlines for the submission of the 2016 Annual Statutory Return are: • Part 1 changes must be finalised by 7 April 2017 • Electronic submission of the Annual Statutory Return must occur by 24 April 2017 and • The signed hard copy submission must reach CMS by 28 April 2017. The Office of the Registrar has also published guidance on the submission requirements. For the full document, please click here. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular10of2017.pdf 27 Feb 2017 15:45:00 +0200 The CMS conducted a trend analysis study on chronic diseases in the private healthcare sector for the period 2010 – 2015. The main finding of the study is that there has been a sustained upward trend in diagnosis and treatment of many chronic conditions on the Chronic Disease List. The top 10 ranking of chronic conditions according to prevalence rates did not change significantly between 2014 and 2015. The study relied on the data that was submitted by medical schemes as part of Annual Statutory Returns (ASR). It is for the first time that this report is based entirely on the ASR data. The study reports prevalence rates using the Scheme Risk Measurement definition as well as a more relaxed definition of prevalence. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Research%20Briefs/researchBrieef.pdf 27 Feb 2017 15:15:00 +0200 This circular provides the dates and specification with regards to the submission of ICD-10 compliance data. To read the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular9of2017.pdf 14 Feb 2017 09:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has published the draft PMB definition guidelines for pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer (including gastro-oesophageal junction) and oesophageal cancer. Stakeholders are requested to provide their comments by the 7th of March 2017 to pmbprojects@medicalschemes.com. To read the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Extras/LINKSS.pdf 09 Feb 2017 15:20:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to provide further information on the Real Time Monitoring submissions for 2017 For the full document, click the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular8of2017.pdf 08 Feb 2017 16:04:00 +0200 This circular serves to inform all stakeholders that the 2016 SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide has been published. For the full circular, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular7of2017.pdf 06 Feb 2017 14:22:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has issued the following Guidelines on the categorisation of assets in terms of Regulation 30 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (Act) read in conjunction with Annexure B to the Regulations. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular6Of2017.pdf 01 Feb 2017 17:10:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) announced today, 1 February 2017, the appointment of the Acting Chief Executive & Registrar for medical schemes. For more information, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease3Of2017.pdf 01 Feb 2017 14:03:00 +0200 This edition of CMScript focuses on Diabetes Mellitus Type 1. Diabetes Mellitus is caused by defects in insulin secretion, insulin action or both. The condition is regarded as one of the increasing health problems in the world, including South Africa. It is estimated that in 2011, a total of 366 million people worldwide had diabetes, and as many as 4.6 million deaths were attributable to the disease. To read more, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript1Of2017.pdf 01 Feb 2017 11:28:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) published its quarterly report for the period ended 30 September 2016 today. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20170131.pdf 31 Jan 2017 17:05:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) noted with great concern the recent press statements and subsequent radio and television interviews regarding the beneficiary registry (BR). The CMS would like to clarify the position and any misconceptions created by these statements concerning the BR. For more information please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/Pressrelease2.pdf 25 Jan 2017 12:40:00 +0200 The Chief Executive & Registrar of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), Dr Humphrey Zokufa has passed away on Sunday, 22 January 2017, after a short period of being ill. For more information please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease1Of2017.pdf 23 Jan 2017 12:31:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is collaborating with the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) to collect Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Tuberculosis (TB) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) data in the private sector, or in the population covered by medical schemes. For more details on this collaboration, kindly refer to the attached circular. Medical schemes, administrators and managed care organisations are hereby requested to submit HIV, TB and STI indicators as defined in the data collection tool document attached to this circular. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular5of2017.pdf 18 Jan 2017 15:35:00 +0200 The industry is familiar with the requirements for the submission of Annual Financial Statements (AFS) and Annual Statutory Returns (ASR) as provided for in the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (the Act). The information which is submitted through the two avenues (i.e. the financial annual statutory returns system and the healthcare utilisation annual statutory returns system) must be aligned and consist of credible, high quality data No auditor engagement is currently performed in respect of the healthcare utilisation annual statutory return. It is proposed that the auditor performs agreed-upon procedures, resulting in a report of factual findings. In line with the above, the Office of the Registrar hereby invites nominations from authorised audit firms to participate in the Utilisation Data Task Group. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular4of2017.pdf 17 Jan 2017 16:35:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalised the 2016 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 4. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular3of2017.pdf 16 Jan 2017 15:40:00 +0200 Adjustment to fees payable to Brokers with effect from 1 January 2017. For more details, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular2of2017.pdf 16 Jan 2017 10:33:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) in Circular 83 of 2016 on the Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB) review, outlined the PMB review process. There have been several calls for clarification of the processes contained in the Circular 83 of 2016. The current Circular seeks to provide further clarification on the PMB review as well timelines for nominations and submissions from stakeholders. For more details, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular1Of2017.pdf 13 Jan 2017 16:14:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is inviting stakeholders to make submissions for the PMB benefit definitions of the following conditions: Hepatocellular cancer, Appendicitis, Gastric and intestinal ulcers with hemorrhage or perforation, Hernia with obstruction and/or gangrene, Uncomplicated hernias under the age of 18years. To read the circular click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular90of2016.pdf 21 Dec 2016 12:34:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of Benefit options in open and restricted medical schemes for the year 2017. For details, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular89of2016.pdf 21 Dec 2016 11:45:00 +0200 Measuring the quality, outcomes and ultimately the value proposition of managed care intervention - Bipolar Mood Disorder and Schizophrenia. For more information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular88Of2016.pdf 15 Dec 2016 11:18:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) publishes the technical guideline document (Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return Technical Guideline for the preparation of data Version 5.1) for completing the utilisation section of the Annual Statutory Return (ASR). The deadline for the submission of the 2015 / 2016 data, the web service, portal and XML schema definitions will be published in due course, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular87Of2016.pdf 12 Dec 2016 15:37:00 +0200 The Executive Committee of Council approved accreditation of administrators and managed care organisations. To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular86of2016.pdf 08 Dec 2016 16:30:00 +0200 The ruling by the Appeal Board to dismiss a claim lodged by a medical doctor against the South African Police Service Medical Scheme (POLMED) (appellant) has helped to provide clarity on the application of section 59(2) of the Medical Schemes Act, 131 of 1998 (MSA). To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease10.pdf 08 Dec 2016 14:10:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes through the Research and Monitoring unit is carrying out a research project on the review of the solvency framework. Following the stakeholder workshops held in Pretoria and Cape Town, the CMS would like to invite stakeholders to participate in working groups. For more information on this study please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular85of2016.pdf 08 Dec 2016 10:22:00 +0200 Regulation 25 to the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998, as amended (the Act) requires the submission of an annual report by the auditor of an administrator to the Registrar of Medical Schemes (Registrar). The format of the report is prescribed in Part 2 of Annexure C to the Act. Regulation17(2)(d) requires the submission of a report by the auditor of an administrator as part of an accreditation application. The report must be in the format as set out in Part 1 of Annexure C, indicating whether or not the administrator's system of financial controls is adequate for the size and complexity of the business of the medical scheme(s) administered. The two Annexure C reports need to be aligned with the new and revised Auditor Reporting Standards, as well as the revised International Standards of Auditing (ISA). In line with the above, the Office of the Registrar hereby invites nominations from authorised audit firms to participate in the Annexure C Task Group. Nominations should be sent to Julindi Scheepers at j.scheepers@medicalschemes.com by 31 December 2016. For more information, please on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular84Of2016.pdf 07 Dec 2016 13:55:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby presents the consultative document on the revision of the Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB). Please click the above link for more details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular83of2016.pdf 02 Dec 2016 15:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical schemes has published its proposed levies on medical schemes for 2017/18 in the Government Gazette on 25 November 2016, to view the general notice and the CMS consolidated budget please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular82Of2016.pdf 25 Nov 2016 15:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), has welcomed the Appeal Board’s ruling on the rule amendment appeal lodged by the Discovery Health Medical Scheme (DHMS). The ruling in the CMS’ favor, upholds the open-enrolment principle, which forms one of the pillars of the Medical Schemes Act, 131 of 1998. In terms of this provision any person can join any open medical scheme of their choice. The effect of the ruling is that members who were previously terminated due to non-disclosure may now re-apply to join the same medical scheme. For more details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease9Of2016.pdf 24 Nov 2016 17:32:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby notifies stakeholders of the approved list of benefit options for open medical schemes for 2017. For more details, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular81of2016.pdf 24 Nov 2016 09:22:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, was recently recognised by the Auditor-General of South Africa for its track record of 16 successive clean audits since its inception in 2000. For more information, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressReleaseCleanAudit.pdf 21 Nov 2016 09:22:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) published its quarterly report for the period ended 31 March 2016 and 30 June 2016 today. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Extras/QRmarchJune2016.pdf 17 Nov 2016 09:17:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar has recently completed the analysis of the 2016 auditor approvals. We are in the process of enhancing the Auditor Authorisation Portal and the application process for 2017 and invite the industry for input. For more details, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular80of2016.pdf 11 Nov 2016 15:00:00 +0200 After consultation with various stakeholders, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published Version 10.1 of the guidelines for identifying medical scheme beneficiaries with risk factors in accordance with the entry and verification criteria (EandV Criteria), as well as the weighting and count tables for 2016. Kindly click on the link above to access these documents. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Extras/hyperlinks.pdf 10 Nov 2016 09:20:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes through the Research and Monitoring unit undertook a study to determine the quality of care provided to beneficiaries in the medical schemes environment. Quality of care of beneficiaries is of vital importance as it affects member experience and potentially has long term cost implications for medical schemes. This study is limited to 8 of the 25 chronic disease list (CDL) and HIV. Future reports on quality of care provided to beneficiaries will include more CDL conditions as well as other conditions that will be deemed appropriate. For more information on this study please click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Research%20Briefs/MoOMS2016.pdf 08 Nov 2016 14:50:00 +0200 National Treasury and the Department of Health issued a joint media statement on 28 October 2016, after tabling the draft Demarcation Regulations in Parliament. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular79of2016.pdf 07 Nov 2016 15:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, this week welcomed Dr Humphrey Zokufa as the new Chief Executive and Registrar. Following a period of over two years without a permanent Registrar, Dr Zokufa takes over the reins at the regulatory body at a critical time in the history of the R151.6 billion medical schemes industry, with a subscription of over 8.81 million beneficiaries across the country. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/pressrelease7.pdf 04 Nov 2016 15:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes published the “Analysis of Scheme Risk Measurement Returns – 2015” report. The report illustrates the impact of age and chronic diseases on the risk profile of medical schemes. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/ITAP%20Documents/analysisofSRM2015FinalReport.pdf 31 Oct 2016 15:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes hereby invites stakeholders to a workshop on the research project on reviewing the solvency framework. The comments received from stakeholders from circular 68 of 2015 is also provided. For more details please follow the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular78of2016.pdf 31 Oct 2016 14:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), is hereby inviting all medical schemes and users of the RTM system to participate in a survey aimed at improving the current RTM system as well as the submission of the RTM data. For further details, please click here to refer to the circular. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular77of2016.pdf 28 Oct 2016 10:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby extends an invitation from the Ministry of Health, for qualified persons to serve as members of the National Health Research Committee (NHRC). http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular76of2016.pdf 27 Oct 2016 13:15:00 +0200 This circular provide clarity on the funding of non-compliance with treatment and lifestyle choices for Prescribed Minimum Benefit. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular75of2016.pdf 27 Oct 2016 09:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) publishes the draft technical guideline document (Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return Technical Guideline for the preparation of data Version 5.0) for completing the utilisation section of the Annual Statutory Return (ASR). You are requested to submit your comments on the draft specification document to the CMS on before 14 November 2016. The CMS invites all Data Officers and other relevant scheme personnel to the Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return workshop which is scheduled for Wednesday, 16 November 2016 at the CMS offices in Centurion from 10:00 to 13:00, please click above here for more details http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/CIRCULAR74of2016.pdf 26 Oct 2016 12:00:00 +0200 The circular seeks to reaffirm that HIV infection is a PMB condition and that benefits are to be paid in line with the current HIV South African National Treatment Guidelines. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular73of2016.pdf 20 Oct 2016 12:16:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalized the 2016 Quarterly Statutory Return online program, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 3. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular72of2016.pdf 14 Oct 2016 14:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalized the 2016 Quarterly Statutory Return online program, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 3. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular72of2016.pdf 14 Oct 2016 14:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, has released its Annual Report for 2015-2016 today (14 October), which includes the most comprehensive report on the private medical schemes industry in South Africa. The full annual report of the CMS, along with Excel and Pdf Annexures which contains detailed information on medical schemes is also available on the CMS website. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PRESS%20RELEASE%206%20of%202016.pdf 14 Oct 2016 11:05:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar is in the process of enhancing the standard guidelines which are published on our website. We invite all medical schemes and interested parties to provide our Office with comments. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/circular71of2016.pdf 07 Oct 2016 15:49:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus Endometriosis. Endometriosis is a condition which occurs when tissue that is normally found inside the uterus, known as the endometrium, grows in other parts of the body. The tissue may attach outside the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, the bowel or the bladder. To read more, please click the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript8of2016.pdf 27 Sep 2016 08:56:00 +0200 We are reviewing Version 9.1 of the guidelines of the Scheme Risk Measurement (SRM) entry and verification criteria in preparation for Version 10 of these guidelines, which will be applicable to cases from 1 January 2016. Kindly submit written comments for consideration before Friday 21 October 2016. To read the circular, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular70of2016.pdf 22 Sep 2016 16:10:00 +0200 The CMS has been tasked by the Honourable Minister of Health to establish a central repository containing all funded (medical scheme) patients in South Africa. In order to properly introduce the Beneficiary Registry project, the CMS intends conducting two (2) Principal Officer Workshops at the CMS Head office in Gauteng and in Cape Town respectively. To read the circular, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/PO Workshop Beneficiary Registry Final.pdf 20 Sep 2016 10:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), a regulatory body of all medical schemes registered in South Africa, is hereby issues a circular to clarify the conditions that needs to be met in order for the diagnosis of Spinal Stenosis to qualify for payment as Prescribed Minimum Benefit by Medical Schemes. To read the circular, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular67Of2016.pdf 13 Sep 2016 15:11:00 +0200 Amendments to Regulations 31 and 32 published in terms of the Medical Schemes Act - increase in statutory fees. To read the circular, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular66Of2016.pdf 09 Sep 2016 12:53:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), once again apologises for the postponement of the 7th CMS Indaba scheduled on 6 September 2016. To read the circular, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular63Of2016.pdf 01 Sep 2016 16:42:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to confirm that the postponement of its launch of the Annual Report 2015-2016 was due to a procedural matter. To read the press release, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease5Of2016.pdf 01 Sep 2016 16:04:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to confirm that the postponement of its launch of the Annual Report 2015-2016 was due to a procedural matter. To read the circular, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular62Of2016.pdf 01 Sep 2016 11:05:00 +0200 CMS Annual Report launch postponed. To read the circular, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular61Of2016.pdf 31 Aug 2016 16:54:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) requires medical schemes to submit data on Medical Male Circumcision by the 26th September 2016. More details with regards to the required data are given in the attached Circular and data specification (Circular 60 of 2016). Please ensure that the data is submitted on or before the 26th September 2016. For more information, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular60Of2016.pdf 25 Aug 2016 10:32:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus Appendicitis. Appendicitis affects both men and women, young and old and people from all racial backgrounds. It is thought that a westernized diet with less dietary fibre increases the risk of appendicitis developing. Longer stool transit times were attributed to increased incidence of appendicitis. To read more, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript7of2016.pdf 18 Aug 2016 10:02:00 +0200 On 15 August 2016 the Registrar published in the Government Gazette No. 402209 a draft Undesirable Business Practice Declaration Notice 917 of 2016. For more information please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular59Of2016.pdf 15 Aug 2016 16:25:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (the CMS) would like to inform all medical schemes that applications for auditor approvals for the 2016 financial year are available on its website (www.medicalschemes.com). For more information please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular58Of2016.pdf 15 Aug 2016 16:21:00 +0200 Statutory fee adjustment in terms of Amendments to Regulations 31 and 32. For more information please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular57Of2016.pdf 15 Aug 2016 09:39:00 +0200 Trustee Induction Training 2016. For more information please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular56Of2016.pdf 12 Aug 2016 17:27:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalised the 2016 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 2. For the full document, please click the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular55Of2016.pdf 12 Aug 2016 17:27:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has noted that a number of journalists are incorrectly referring to Mr. Brian Watson as the Principal Officer of the Genesis Medical Scheme. For more information please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular54Of2016.pdf 10 Aug 2016 15:57:00 +0200 Organisations Accredited following Council EXCO held on 21 July 2016. To read more, please click. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular53Of2016.pdf 08 Aug 2016 09:42:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to welcome all interested parties to provide suggested changes/input to the 2016 SAICA Accounting Guide. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular51Of2016.pdf 26 Jul 2016 16:36:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to welcome all interested parties to provide suggested changes/input to the 2016 SAICA Accounting Guide. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular51Of2016.pdf 26 Jul 2016 16:36:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) is currently in the process of enhancing the format of the Annual Statutory Return for the 2016 financial year. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular50Of2016.pdf 26 Jul 2016 16:36:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published the various prescribed audit report templates effective for the 2016 financial year, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular49of2016.pdf 20 Jul 2016 16:26:00 +0200 July is Mental Illness Awareness month, and in this issue of CMScript we focus on Unipolar Depression. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) depression is already the fourth leading contributor to the global burden of disease. The WHO indicated that an estimated 350 million people worldwide suffer from the disease. In South Africa, depression is the third contributor of unnatural deaths. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript6Of2016.pdf 18 Jul 2016 16:28:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to provide medical schemes with guidance on benefit changes and contribution increases for the 2017 benefit year. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular 48 of 2016.pdf 18 Jul 2016 16:48:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to inform all Principal Officers of medical schemes, as well as third party medical scheme administrators that the Minister of Health has issued a directive regarding the establishment of a Beneficiary Registry. For more details, please click here. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular47Of2016.pdf 15 Jun 2016 16:48:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to inform medical schemes statutory auditors and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) advisors that the online Authorisation Portal is now available on the CMS website. Applications for audit firms, individual auditors and IFRS advisors who would like to be authorised for the 2016 financial year are now open, for more details, click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular46Of2016.pdf 15 Jun 2016 11:59:00 +0200 The office of the Registrar publishes final reports on measuring the quality, outcomes and value proposition in respect of seven CDL conditions. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular45Of2016.pdf 01 Jul 2016 13:56:00 +0200 The CMS has decided to embark on a joint exercise with medical schemes in terms of vetting of medical scheme officials (Trustees and Principal Officers). The office undertakes to conduct its vetting process with utmost confidentiality and in accordance with section 60 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 0f 1998, which deals with preservation of secrecy by the Council and its staff members. To this end, the scheme officials are required to complete the attached vetting form in line with the contents of Circular 44 of 2016. For the full documents, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular44Of2016.pdf 29 Jun 2016 16:04:00 +0200 The circular and appendix provide information on the submission of ICD-10 compliance data. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular43Of2016.pdf 29 Jun 2016 09:39:00 +0200 ICD-10 Code Rejected as Duplicates. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular42Of2016.pdf 29 Jun 2016 09:39:00 +0200 Broker Training. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular41Of2016.pdf 28 Jun 2016 14:14:00 +0200 Accredited Skills Programme Training for Trustees. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular40Of2016.pdf 28 Jun 2016 14:13:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar has finalised the review of the model rules and its explanatory memorandum. These documents are available on our website and can be accessed here. For more information on this, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular39Of2016.pdf 28 Jun 2016 08:21:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published in the Government Gazette on 24 June 2016 a general notice on the imposition of levies on medicals schemes. For more information on this, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular38Of2016.pdf 24 Jun 2016 12:39:00 +0200 Electoral Practices and Processes involved in Election of Members of Board of Trustees for Medical Schemes. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular37Of2016.pdf 15 Jun 2016 10:36:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalised the 2016 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 1. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular36Of2016.pdf 13 Jun 2016 17:05:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus Asthma. Asthma is a disease affecting the airways that carry air to and from the lungs. It is an incurable illness, however, with good treatment and management, a person with asthma can live a normal and active life. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript5Of2016.pdf 13 Jun 2016 16:28:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and preparers of statutory returns to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2015 Annual Financial Statements and Statutory Returns. For details please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular35Of2016.pdf 10 Jun 2016 14:25:00 +0200 The Executive Committee of Council approved the renewal of accreditation for administrators and managed care organisations. For details please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular34Of2016.pdf 07 Jun 2016 10:53:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to inform the industry of the authorised audit firms for medical schemes for the 2016 financial year. To find the list of authorised audit firms, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular33Of2016.pdf 31 May 2016 18:14:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Ischaemic heart disease. It occurs when there is insufficient blood flow to a part/area of the heart muscle, due to a blockage in the blood vessels leading to there. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript4Of2016.pdf 23 May 2016 09:49:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes invites stakeholders to make submissions for colorectal, esophageal, and pancreatic cancer to be considered for the benefit definition project. For details please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular32Of2016.pdf 13 May 2016 16:49:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has finalised the authorisation standards for statutory auditors of medical schemes and IFRS advisers for 2016 financial year. Applications for authorisation of audit firms are now open. The applications will be made through an online based form, as an interim measure, in order for medical schemes to have a list of authorised firms in time for the appointment of statutory auditors at the Annual General Meetings (AGMs) for 2016 financial year. For more details click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular31Of2016.pdf 11 May 2016 14:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published the 2015 Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return for final signature on the ASR portal. For more details, please on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular30Of2016.pdf 29 Apr 2016 11:00:00 +0200 The National Department of Health (NDoH) has requested the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) to bring the additions to the UPFS Minor Theatre Procedures to the urgent attention of all medical schemes. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular29Of2016.pdf 25 Apr 2016 16:50:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes encourages medical scheme members to take charge of the affairs of their schemes, by attending their scheme’s Annual General Meetings. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease4Of2016.pdf 20 Apr 2016 09:07:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Valvular heart disease (VHD) which is caused by a defect in one of the four valves controlling the direction of blood flow through the heart. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript3Of2016.pdf 15 Apr 2016 13:05:00 +0200 Organisations accredited following Council EXCO meeting held on 31 March 2016. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular28Of2016.pdf 12 Apr 2016 15:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has revised its Vision and Mission, further cementing its commitment towards the promotion of healthcare for all. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular27Of2016.pdf 08 Apr 2016 16:45:00 +0200 The Research and Monitoring Unit in conjunction with the Benefits Management Unit published a circular on Evaluation of contribution increase assumptions for 2016. The analysis show that the weighted total cost assumption increase for 2016 is lower than the weighted total cost assumption increase for 2015. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular26Of2016.pdf 07 Apr 2016 15:03:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published in the Government Gazette on 31 March 2016 a general notice on the imposition of levies on medicals schemes. For more information on this, please click on the heading above . http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular25Of2016.pdf 04 Apr 2016 16:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby publishes the benefit definition for breast cancer. This is part of a process to better define PMB benefits through the development of explicit benefit definitions (BD) for PMB conditions as prescribed in the PMB regulations. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular24Of2016.pdf 30 Mar 2016 17:35:00 +0200 CMScript Complete is an anthology on Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs) as a way of ensuring that members of medical schemes are informed about their benefits entitlements. CMScripts are written regularly on various topic, and this is a collection of all the 2015 editions. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScriptComplete2015.pdf 30 Mar 2016 17:34:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has finalised the 2015 Annual Statutory Return (AFS) word document, which is now available on our website (http://www.medicalschemes.com/Returns/login.aspx). For the full circular on the submission requirements, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular21Of2016.pdf 22 Mar 2016 10:02:00 +0200 Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes refused to renew the accreditation of Strata Healthcare Management (Pty) Ltd as an Administrator. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular23Of2016.pdf 18 Mar 2016 15:13:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has finalised the 2015 Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return system. The system ‘go live date’ has been postponed to Friday, 18 March 2016. Please note that the deadline for the submission of the 2015 Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return is 26 April 2016. Schemes are referred to the 2015 Statutory Annual Return Technical Guideline for the preparation of data, for detailed guidance on the completion of the Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular22Of2016.pdf 16 Mar 2016 16:21:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has finalised the 2015 Annual Statutory Return online system for the submission of financial data, which is now available on our website. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular21Of2016.pdf 16 Mar 2016 16:20:00 +0200 CMS Education and Training Plan 2016. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular20Of2016.pdf 11 Mar 2016 13:58:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Emergency Conditions; what qualifies as an emergency condition and what treatment are you entitled to in terms of PMBs. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript2Of2016.pdf 11 Mar 2016 13:57:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has carried out a research project on the utilisation of health services in the financial years 2013 and 2014. This highlighted the trends in hospitalisation, utilisation of health services providers and medicines. This report further explores the changes in utilisation from 2013 and 2014 as well as the cost increases over the same period. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Research%20Briefs/UtilisationReport20160307.pdf 07 Mar 2016 13:16:00 +0200 The Constitutional Court on 17 February dismissed, without a hearing, the application for leave to appeal by Genesis Medical Scheme against a judgment of the Supreme Court of Appeal, obliging the scheme to pay PMB benefits in full in the private sector. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease3Of2016.pdf 26 Feb 2016 12:28:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes will be presenting a workshop to parties affected by changes made to our online statutory tools during March 2016. This workshop will inter alia, cover the changes to the annual return; discuss problem areas identified during the previous annual and quarterly return analysis processes, and address concerns raised by the users of these returns. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular18Of2016.pdf 25 Feb 2016 14:28:00 +0200 The curatorship of Hosmed Medical Scheme has been uplifted by the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria yesterday (22 February) at the request of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease2Of2016.pdf 23 Feb 2016 16:52:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is embarking on a new process to accredit auditors who would like to conduct medical scheme audits. A set of standards has been developed for accreditation of audit firms, engagement partners and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) advisers required to be met in order to be granted accreditation. CMS has published the draft accreditation standards for comments. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular17Of2016.pdf 22 Feb 2016 16:42:00 +0200 The CMS in collaboration with The Global Platform for Intellectual Property (“TGPIP”) has developed the Governance & Compliance Instrument (“GCI”).The GCI is to be the mechanism for a complete, credible and standardized process that facilitates better governance and compliance management by the Board of Trustees of Medical Schemes as well as providing transparency and accountability of this to the Scheme’s beneficiaries and the CMS. For details, please click on the heading above for more details http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular16Of2016.pdf 16 Feb 2016 16:36:00 +0200 Following industry consultation on the collection of the healthcare utilisation data, the Office of the Registrar hereby publishes the final technical guideline document for completing the Utilisation section of the Annual Statutory Return. Click on the heading above for more details http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular15Of2016.pdf 15 Feb 2016 12:29:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to advise medical schemes that the changes for 2016 have been applied to the wdsl file for RTM. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular14Of2016.pdf 12 Feb 2016 12:19:00 +0200 Hereby, the National Department of Health calls for nomination from suitably qualified individuals for appointment to the National Ministerial Advisory Committee on Antimicrobial Resistance. For details, please click on the heading above. https://www.phasa.org.za/call-for-nominations-for-the-national-ministerial-advisory-committee-on-amr/ 11 Feb 2016 17:10:00 +0200 All prospective and current suppliers of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) are hereby informed about National Treasury’s single platform, the Central Supplier Database (CSD). For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular13Of2016.pdf 10 Feb 2016 12:08:00 +0200 All medical schemes are required to provide the CMS with dates on which they intend to hold their AGM’s, SGM’s and trustee elections during 2016. You are required to provide these dates by 12 February 2016. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular12Of2016.pdf 09 Feb 2016 14:32:00 +0200 The CMS invites proposals/suggestions on topics or specific areas on which additional training is required. For the full circular please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular11Of2016.pdf 03 Jan 2016 14:32:00 +0200 This circular serves to inform all stakeholders that the Supplement to the 2014 SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide has been published. For the full circular please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular10Of2016.pdf 02 Jan 2016 16:08:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) published its quarterly report for the period ended 30 September 2015 today. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20160129.pdf 29 Jan 2016 13:45:00 +0200 Adjustment to fees payable to Brokers with effect from 1 January 2016. To read the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular9Of2016.pdf 27 Jan 2016 10:19:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has issued the following Guidelines on the categorisation of assets in terms of Regulation 30 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (Act). To read the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular8Of2016.pdf 22 Jan 2016 15:19:00 +0200 The CMS postpones the Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return Technical Workshop. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular7Of2016.pdf 22 Jan 2016 15:15:00 +0200 After feedback from stakeholders it was decided to delete the changes made to the note on Rheumatoid Arthritis table, and replace it with the original wording. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular6Of2016.pdf 21 Jan 2016 15:19:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, advises medical scheme members to use their benefits wisely – especially at the beginning of the year – with the aim of making their benefits last longer. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease1Of2016.pdf 20 Jan 2016 09:38:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes revised the timelines for submissions of the Draft Benefit Definition for Breast Cancer. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular5Of2016.pdf 18 Jan 2016 16:42:00 +0200 Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes invites comments on the results of ITAP initiative – measuring quality and outcomes of managed care interventions. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular4Of2016.pdf 18 Jan 2016 15:13:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalised the 2015 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 4. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular3Of2016.pdf 15 Jan 2016 12:48:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to provide further information on the Real Time Monitoring submissions for 2016. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular2Of2016.pdf 14 Jan 2016 17:15:00 +0200 The circular and appendix provide information on the submission of ICD-10 compliance data. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular1Of2016.pdf 14 Jan 2016 17:13:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has developed a draft benefit definition for breast cancer. The benefit definition project is coordinated by the CMS and aims to define the prescribed minimum benefit package and to guide the interpretation of the PMB provisions by relevant stakeholders. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular75of2015.pdf 15 Dec 2015 14:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in open and restricted medical schemes for the year 2016. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular74Of2015.pdf 15 Dec 2015 14:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical schemes (CMS) has published the guidelines for identifying medical scheme beneficiaries with risk factors in accordance with the entry and verification criteria. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular73Of2015.pdf 11 Dec 2015 16:54:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) supports Universal Health Coverage Day (UHC), celebrated globally on 12 December each year by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and more than 500 organisations worldwide. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular72Of2015.pdf 11 Dec 2015 16:53:00 +0200 The National Department of Health (NDoH) recently launched a mobile application that seeks to improve primary healthcare services in the health sector in South Africa. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular71Of2015.pdf 09 Dec 2015 15:22:00 +0200 The CMS conducted a trend analysis study on chronic diseases in the private healthcare sector for the period 2009 – 2014. The study was a retrospective review of the Scheme Risk Measurement prevalence database. The main finding of the study is that there has been a sustained upward trend in diagnosis and treatment of many chronic conditions on the Chronic Disease List. Whilst this study is not yet in a position to isolate specific reasons for this increase in chronic diseases, the trend could still be generally attributed to improved data management systems of medical schemes and administrators, the deteriorating disease profile and increased beneficiary awareness of entitlements and changes in care-seeking behaviour. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Research%20Briefs/RsrchBrfPrvlncOfchrncdsssppltn2015.pdf 09 Dec 2015 15:21:00 +0200 The Council for Medical schemes has published its proposed levies on medical schemes for 2016/17 in the Government Gazette on 2 December 2015, to view the general notice and the full consolidated budget click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular70Of2015.pdf 04 Dec 2015 16:40:00 +0200 The CMS is reviewing the Technical Guidelines for the preparation of the Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return data, which will be applicable for the 2014 and 2015 financial years. Kindly submit written comments to lion@medicalschemes.com for consideration before Friday 15 January 2016. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular69Of2015.pdf 01 Dec 2015 14:07:00 +0200 CMS warns, only members of schemes allowed to appoint healthcare brokers of their choice, For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease17Of2015.pdf 01 Dec 2015 10:06:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has undertaken a research project on reviewing the solvency framework. For more details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular68Of2015.pdf 25 Nov 2015 16:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) published its quarterly report for the period ended 30 June 2015 today. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20150630.pdf 19 Nov 2015 11:41:00 +0200 The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) in Bloemfontein yesterday upheld an appeal by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) concerning prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs). Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease16Of2015.pdf 17 Nov 2015 16:28:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in open medical schemes for the year 2016. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular67Of2015.pdf 17 Nov 2015 14:37:00 +0200 Council for Medical Schemes published the “Analysis of SRM returns – 2014” report. The report illustrates the impact of age and chronic diseases on the risk profile of medical schemes. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/ITAP%20Documents/AnlysOfSRMRtrnsFinalReport2014.pdf 10 Nov 2015 14:06:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) through the Research & Monitoring hereby presents a report on the beneficiary movement for all beneficiaries of medical schemes during the calendar years 2013 and 2014. For results on this analysis please see detailed report by clicking on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Research%20Briefs/RBBnfcryMvmnt2013_2014.pdf 09 Nov 2015 16:25:00 +0200 Broker Training in PE and Durban. For more information, please click on the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular66Of2015.pdf 09 Nov 2015 16:23:00 +0200 Prospective and current medical scheme members are encouraged to choose wisely when selecting the right scheme and benefit options for 2016 says the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease15Of2015.pdf 09 Nov 2015 09:31:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Gallstones and Cholecystitis. The Council for Medical Schemes regularly receives enquiries and complaints with regards to unpaid or short-paid accounts for the treatment of gallstones. In this article we will provide information on the condition itself as well as clarity on the Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB) for the condition. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript10Of2015.pdf.pdf 05 Nov 2015 16:37:00 +0200 The 83 registered medical schemes in South Africa are in a healthy financial state and continue to provide sufficient financing for private medical care, as stated by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the industry. These schemes are also nowhere close to collapsing as reported in the media since the past weekend. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease14Of2015.pdf 28 Sept 2015 10:19:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes requires the auditors of medical schemes in terms of Sections 36(5)(d) and 37(2) to report on Key Audit Matters (KAM) in their audits of medical schemes’ financial statements for the years ending 31 December 2016 onwards. For the full circular please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular65Of2015.pdf 27 Oct 2015 15:42:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, would like to warn the public to act with caution when dealing with Lebogang Charlotte Thutwa (Ms Thutwa). Ms Thutwa is not accredited in terms of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (MSA) to render healthcare broker services. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease13Of2015.pdf 15 Oct 2015 16:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalised the 2015 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 3. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular64Of2015.pdf 15 Oct 2015 14:30:00 +0200 Standard Guidelines on the format of Business Plans for the Registration of a new Medical Scheme, New / Restructured Benefit Options, Regulation 29, Amalgamations, Reinsurance and Standard Management Accounts. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular63Of2015.pdf 14 Oct 2015 13:20:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Gastroenteritis. It is the inflammation of the gut (intestines). Many children (from birth to 12 years) have more than one episode in a year. The severity can range from a mild, upset tummy with mild diarrhoea for a day or two, to severe diarrhoea and vomiting for several days or longer. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript9Of2015.pdf 14 Oct 2015 13:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), as well as the National Department of Health have received various submissions relating to the proposed low cost benefit package. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular62Of2015.pdf 12 Oct 2015 16:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) pays tribute to Prof Jan van der Merwe, who served as the first Medical Advisor of CMS from January 2002 until February 2009. “Prof Jan”, as he was respectfully known throughout the healthcare fraternity and academia, passed away on Friday, 25 September 2015. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular61Of2015.pdf 30 Sept 2015 11:13:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) published its quarterly report for the period ended 31 March 2015 today. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20150331.pdf 29 Sept 2015 12:56:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby gives notice in advance to all stakeholders that the office will close on Friday, 18 December 2015 and re-open on 4 January 2016. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular60Of2015.pdf 29 Sept 2015 12:55:00 +0200 http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Research%20Briefs/RBQltyCrMdclSchms_2013_2014.pdf 28 Sept 2015 16:46:00 +0200 Department of Health invites comments on proposed amendments to Regulations 31 and 32 which prescribe statutory fees payable to the Council for Medical Schemes. For more information please, click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular59Of2015.pdf 25 Sept 2015 10:55:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to warn the public to act with caution when dealing with Mr Derick Gerber and Revolution Wealth. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease12Of2015.pdf 18 Sept 2015 11:56:00 +0200 Please be informed that our IT Systems will be inaccessible this coming Saturday, 19 September 2015, from 08:00 AM to 11:00 AM due to electrical rewiring to our UPS array to accommodate the inclusion of newly constructed office facilities. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular58Of2015.pdf 18 Sept 2015 11:55:00 +0200 We are reviewing Version 8.1 of the guidelines of the Scheme Risk Measurement (SRM) entry and verification criteria in preparation for Version 9 of these guidelines, which will be applicable to cases from 1 January 2015. Kindly submit written comments for consideration before Friday 16 October 2015. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular57Of2015.pdf 16 Sept 2015 17:27:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These are the two main forms of inflammatory bowel diseases. The conditions are characterised by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript8Of2015.pdf 09 Sept 2015 14:24:00 +0200 Circular 13 of 2014 necessitated a review of the accounting terms used in relation to accredited managed care services. In Circular 44 of 2015 the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invited interested parties to provide comments on the proposed changes to the 2015 year’s Annual Statutory Return in relation to accredited managed care services and benefit management services. The CMS wishes to thank the industry for the numerous comments received. Circular 56 of 2015 has been published in lieu of the comments received, and CMS wishes to invite interested parties to provide comments on the proposed changes to the 2015 year’s Annual Statutory Return in relation to accredited managed care services and benefit management services. Any suggestions and comments can be submitted to j.scheepers@medicalschemes.com on or before 18 September 2015. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular56Of2015.pdf 09 Sept 2015 11:51:00 +0200 The Council (equivalent of a Board) of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) at its August 2015 sitting approved the exemption framework and principles allowing for the introduction of Low cost benefit options (LCBOs) within the medical schemes industry with these options being registered before January 2016. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease11Of2015.pdf 08 Sept 2015 10:22:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to correct an error that was reported in the CMS Annual Report 2014/15. The scheme that was under curatorship was Medshield and not Medihelp. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular55Of2015.pdf 07 Sept 2015 12:26:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is today releasing a document that outlines the framework and principles for LCBOs as well as the guidelines for preparation of a business plan pursuant to an application for exemption to register a LCBOs. This document can be accessed by clicking on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular54Of2015.pdf 03 Sept 2015 15:39:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, released its Annual Report for 2014-2015 today (1 September), which includes the most comprehensive report on the private medical schemes industry in South Africa. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease10Of2015.pdf 01 Sept 2015 11:44:00 +0200 Journalists and Editors are cordially invited to attend a press conference on the morning of Tuesday, 1 September where the regulator of the medical schemes industry, the Council for Medical Schemes' (CMS) Annual Report for 2014/15 will be presented. Click on the heading above to RSVP. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Annual%20Reports/MediaInviteAR2015.pdf 25 Aug 2015 14:27:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites industry stakeholders to the 6th Indaba where detailed information on the state of the medical schemes industry in 2014 will be shared. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/CMSIndaba20150908.pdf 20 Aug 2015 14:34:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby invites Principal Officers and Trustees of medical schemes to the quarterly forum on 1 & 2 September, 2015. The CMS Annual Report 2014/15, which includes the medical schemes industry report for 2014, will be presented at the forum. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Annual%20Reports/ARLaunch2015.pdf 20 Aug 2015 14:33:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate. During the second and third months of pregnancy, the tissues that form the lip and palate fuse together. However, in certain instances the fusion does not take place or only does partially. This leaves an opening in the lip and/or cleft. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript7Of2015.pdf 17 Aug 2015 13:06:00 +0200 The National Department of Health (NDoH) in conjunction with its partners, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Office and the Global Fund invites eligible and professional companies and individuals with local presence in South Africa to respond to the Call for Expression of Interest for Technical assistance for the mapping of National Health Accounts (NHA). To read more, please click heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular53Of2015.pdf 14 Aug 2015 15:58:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar has finalised the 2015 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 2. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular52Of2015.pdf 14 Aug 2015 12:10:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is offering a continued professional development (CPD) bearing two-day Induction Programme targeted towards newly appointed medical scheme board of trustee members and principal officers. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular51Of2015.pdf 13 Aug 2015 15:56:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) will be hosting a one day consultative workshop and training for accredited healthcare brokers on 30 September 2015. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular50Of2015.pdf 13 Aug 2015 15:55:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, commented today on the proposed amendments to Regulation 8 - pertaining to prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs) made in terms of the Medical Schemes Act, 131 of 1998 (the Act). Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease9Of2015.pdf 29 Jul 2015 16:52:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and Data Officers to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2014 Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Returns. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular49Of2015.pdf 28 Jul 2015 09:54:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to provide medical schemes with guidance on benefit changes and contribution increases for the 2016 benefit year. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular48Of2015.pdf 24 Jul 2015 15:39:00 +0200 The North Gauteng High Court confirmed last week (8 July, 2015) that the decision to order an inspection into the affairs of a medical scheme in terms of section 44(4) of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 by the Registrar of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is not appealable in terms of section 49 of the Act. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease8Of2015.pdf 14 Jul 2015 09:37:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Cataracts. Cataract is a PMB condition and the treatment component of this is specified as extraction of cataract; lens implant. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript6Of2015.pdf 07 Jul 2015 08:29:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published in the Government Gazette on 6 July 2015 a general notice on the imposition of levies on medicals schemes. For more information on this, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular47Of2015.pdf 06 Jul 2015 16:05:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) today released a statement after completion of the extensive first phase of the investigation into its former Chief Executive and Registrar, Dr Monwabisi Gantsho, whose contract expired on 30 June 2015. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease7Of2015.pdf 02 Jul 2015 17:31:00 +0200 The circular and appendix provide information on the submission of ICD-10 compliance data. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular46Of2015.pdf 02 Jul 2015 16:26:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) is currently in the process of enhancing the format of the Annual Statutory Return for the 2015 financial year. To read more, please on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular45Of2015.pdf 30 Jun 2015 16:44:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes wishes to invite interested parties to provide comments on the proposed changes to the 2015 year’s Annual Statutory Return in relation to accredited managed care services and benefit management services. Any suggestions and comments can be submitted to j.scheepers@medicalschemes.com on or before 31 July 2015. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular44Of2015.pdf 30 Jun 2015 09:48:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is a caring and responsive regulator of the private medical schemes industry with a proud track record borne out by 15 years of staying on the pulse of serving the 8,7 million beneficiaries of this R129 billion private medical schemes industry. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease6Of2015.pdf 26 Jun 2015 14:49:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and preparers of statutory returns to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2014 Annual Financial Statements and Statutory Returns. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular43Of2015.pdf 18 Jun 2015 14:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes would like to inform all users that the online auditor questionnaire for the 2015 financial year is now available on our website (www.medicalschemes.com). To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular42Of2015.pdf 11 Jun 2015 16:33:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on the rehabilitation of PMB conditions. The Clinical Review Committee receives a wide variety of enquiries and complaints with regards to the physical rehabilitation of members who suffered a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition requiring therapy. In order to provide guidance on what treatment is included as PMB level of care, it is important to understand the definition of physical rehabilitation and the provisions in the Medical Scheme Act 131 of 1998. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript5Of2015.pdf 09 Jun 2015 12:23:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) requires medical schemes to submit data on Medical Male Circumcision by the 17th July 2015. More details on the required data are given in the attached Circular and data specification. Please ensure that the data is submitted on or before the 17th July 2015. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular41Of2015.pdf 09 Jun 2015 12:22:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers and statutory return users with information on the 2015 quarterly statutory return submissions. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular40Of2015.pdf 05 Jun 2015 15:38:00 +0200 Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes invites comments from industry stakeholders and interested parties on proposed managed care treatment guidelines for HIV/AIDS. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular39Of2015.pdf 03 Jun 2015 13:02:00 +0200 Gaucher disease (GD) is a rare genetic disorder (1 in 75,000 births World-wide), an inborn error of metabolism due to a deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme acid β-glucosidase (glucocerebrosidase). Gaucher’s Disease is a Prescribed Minimum Benefit condition under Diagnostic Treatment Pair (DTP) code 901K. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript4Of2015.pdf 25 May 2015 08:05:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby invites you to a workshop on the establishment of a beneficiary registry on Wednesday 10 June 2015 in Pretoria and Friday, 12 June 2015 in Cape Town. Please click on the heading above for more information and to RSVP. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/InvtBnfcryRgstryWrkshps2015.pdf 22 May 2015 17:19:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, gives notice to the public that following a request by the CMS to Mr Jan le Roux to make submissions why his accreditation as an individual broker should not be suspended or withdrawn, Mr Le Roux surrendered his accreditation. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease5Of2015.pdf 22 May 2015 09:18:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), hereby invites you to the Trustees and Principal Officers Forum, which will be followed by a workshop on establishing a Marketing Forum on Tuesday, 9 June in Gauteng and Thursday, 11 June in Cape Town. This Forum meeting is extremely important for PO’s to attend, CMS will amongst others discuss the Beneficiary Registry which will have an impact on all schemes and administrators. Administrators will be invited (in a separate invitation) to a meeting the following day, which PO’s are welcome to attend. Please click on the heading above for more information and to RSVP. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/InvttnPOMrktngFrm.pdf 21 May 2015 09:38:00 +0200 The National Department of Health’s Directorate: Revenue related issues-UPFS would like to bring information regarding further additions to the UPFS Minor Theatre Procedures under the attention of medical schemes. To read more, click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular38Of2015.pdf 20 May 2015 14:48:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is today releasing a document that outlines the request for proposals on the benefit design and pricing of a Low Cost Benefit Option. This document can be accessed by clicking on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular37Of2015.pdf 15 May 2015 12:49:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, would like to warn the public to act with caution when dealing with Nyameka Stella Booi (Ms Booi). Ms Booi is not accredited in terms of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (MSA) to render broker services as a healthcare broker. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease4Of2015.pdf 11 May 2015 15:54:00 +0200 On 17 April 2015, the Acting Registrar of Medical Schemes (“the Registrar”) published in Government Gazette No 38693, a draft undesirable business practice declaration notice 333 of 2015. The notice was made in terms of section 61of the Medical Schemes Act. The Registrar also issued Circular 29 of 2015 on the same day informing all interested parties of the draft notice and of the invitation for representations. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular36of2015.pdf 8 May 2015 16:17i:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby gives notice in advance to stakeholders that all systems will experience downtime this afternoon, 7 May 2015 between 17:00 and 18:00 as well as this Saturday, 9 May 2015 for the entire day. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular35of2015Final.pdf 7 May 2015 14:32:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby gives notice in advance to all stakeholders that the office will close on Friday, 1 May to Sunday, 3 May 2015 to accommodate a changeover to a new generator which will impact all of our systems. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular34Of2015.pdf 30 Apr 2015 14:32:00 +0200 Brain tumours are included in the Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB) regulations as one of the Diagnostic Treatment Pairs. This article will provide information on the condition and treatment types and ends with a brief general guide on how treatment will be funded according to the PMB Regulations. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript3Of2015.pdf 30 Apr 2015 11:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published in the Government Gazette on 28 April 2015 a general notice on the imposition of levies on medicals schemes. For more information on this, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular33Of2015.pdf 28 Apr 2015 17:45:00 +0200 The NDoH would like to bring information regarding additions to the UPFS Minor Theatre Procedures under the attention of medical schemes. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular32Of2015.pdf 22 Apr 2015 16:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to welcome all interested parties to provide suggested changes/input to the 2015 SAICA Accounting Guide. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular31Of2015.pdf 21 Apr 2015 16:09:00 +0200 The CMS has extended the submission of the signed Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return documents to 15 May 2015. Click on the heading above for details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular30Of2015.pdf 17 Apr 2015 15:22:00 +0200 The acting Registrar of Medical Schemes (“the Registrar”) is – in terms of section 61(2) of the Medical Schemes Act – actively considering the possibility of declaring certain practices, in relation to election of trustees in medical schemes, undesirable. On 17 April 2015, the Registrar published in Government Gazette No 38693, a draft undesirable business practice declaration. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular29Of2015.pdf 17 Apr 2015 09:42:00 +0200 The CMS encourages principal members to take an active interest in the affairs of their respective medical scheme by attending the AGM of their scheme. Click on the heading above for a list of medical scheme AGM's for 2015. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease3Of2015.pdf 15 Apr 2015 16:27:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has finalised the 2014 Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return system. The system will go live from today, 1 April 2015. Please note that the deadline for the submission of the 2014 Healthcare Utilisation Annual Statutory Return is 30 April 2015. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular27Of2015.pdf 01 Apr 2015 16:00:00 +0200 The Committee for Auditing Standards (the CFAS) of the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA) issued the Guide for Registered Auditors: Assurance Engagements on the Annual Financial Statements and Annual Statutory Returns of a Medical Scheme (the IRBA Audit Guide for Medical Schemes) in March 2015. The Guide is effective for engagements on accounting periods ending on or after 31 December 2015. Early adoption is however encouraged. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular26Of2015.pdf 30 Mar 2015 16:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to inform all medical schemes and administrators that the date for submission of 2014 SRM data has now been extended to 30 April 2015. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular25Of2015.pdf 30 Mar 2015 16:20:00 +0200 Dystonia is a neurological condition characterised by involuntary and sustained muscle spasms as a result of incorrect signals from the brain. All medical schemes are required by law to pay for the diagnosis, treatment and care costs of Dystonia as a PMB condition as prescribed. Medical schemes are required to pay for the initial diagnosis; initiation of medical management as PMB level of care. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript2Of2015.pdf 30 Mar 2015 11:24:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is today giving extension to the deadline of comments on the proposed Model Rules. For more information, please click on the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular24Of2015.pdf 25 Mar 2015 13:45:00 +0200 The Research and Monitoring Unit in conjunction with the Benefits Management Unit published a circular on Evaluation of contribution increase assumptions for 2015. The analysis show that the weighted total cost assumption increase for 2015 is similar to the weighted total cost assumption increase for 2014. For the full document, please click on the heading above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular23Of2015.pdf 25 Mar 2015 13:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby publishes the benefit definition for Ischaemic heart diseases. This is part of a process to better define PMB benefits through the development of explicit benefit definitions (BD) for PMB conditions as prescribed in the PMB regulations. To read the article, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular22Of2015.pdf 25 Mar 2015 13:43:00 +0200 The CMS hereby confirms that the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has approved an increase in the maximum amount payable to brokers in terms of Section 65 of the Medical Schemes Act, 1998 (Act No 131 of 1998) to R75.00 plus value added tax (VAT). To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular21Of2015.pdf 23 Mar 2015 16:07:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), an autonomous statutory body created by parliament to regulate Medical Schemes in South Africa, today announced that the independent forensic investigation of Dr Monwabisi Gantsho, Chief Executive of CMS and Registrar of Medical Schemes was recently finalised. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease2Of2015.pdf 16 Mar 2015 04:31:00 +0200 It has been noted by the Registrar of Medical Schemes that some third-party services providers associated or contracted with medical schemes promote their businesses in a manner calculated to indicate, or to lead the general public to believe that such services providers carry on the business of a medical scheme, For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular20Of2015.pdf 13 Mar 2015 17:03:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes (Office) has finalised the 2014 Annual Statutory Return online system for the submission of financial data, which is now available on our website (http://www.medicalschemes.com/Returns/login.aspx). Schemes are referred to the 2014 Annual Statutory Return Help File, for detailed guidance on the completion of the Annual Statutory Return. Please note that the deadline for the submission of the 2014 Annual Statutory Return is 30 April 2015. The Office has also published guidance on the submission requirements. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular19Of2015.pdf 13 Mar 2015 16:58:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) will be hosting a one-day consultative workshop and training for accredited healthcare brokers. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular18Of2015.pdf 10 Mar 2015 17:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes together with The Institute of Health Risk Managers (IHRM) is offering another SAQA accredited four-day Trustee Skills Training Programme targeted towards medical scheme trustees and principal officers. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular17Of2015.pdf 10 Mar 2015 17:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is today releasing a discussion document on proposed revised Model Rules for Medical Schemes with an explanatory memorandum. These documents can be accessed by clicking on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular15Of2015.pdf 26 Feb 2015 16:26:00 +0200 The National Department of Health (NDoH) has requested the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) to bring this invitation to a consultative forum on 10 March 2015 under the urgent attention of medical schemes. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular14Of2015.pdf 26 Feb 2015 15:44:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has issued the following final Guidelines on the categorisation of assets in terms of Regulation 30 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (Act) read in conjunction with Annexure B to the Regulations. To read the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular13Of2015.pdf 24 Feb 2015 16:38:00 +0200 CMS Stakeholder please be advised that all Telkom based inbound calls (landline calls) are not currently coming in to the CMS phone network due to a technical error from Telkom’s side. We do not know how long this may take but the matter has been escalated as Very Urgent. Click on the heading above for more details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular12of2015CMSincominglandlinecalls.pdf 23 Feb 2015 14:58:00 +0200 The CMS apologises for the delayed responses to your emails over the past two days. Unfortunately our email server malfunctioned causing the delay. We wish to inform you that the email system has been fixed and is operating normally. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular11Of2015.pdf 20 Feb 2015 08:16:00 +0200 CMS has published the updated data specification documents, including the webservice, portal and XML scheme definitions (XSD’s). Click on the heading above for more details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular10Of2015.pdf 19 Feb 2015 16:05:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is currently considering the introduction of a guideline which will allow medical schemes to introduce low cost benefit options (“LCBO’s”) in the near future. The purpose of this Circular is to invite early comments from industry stakeholders on what detailed aspects to consider in developing such a guideline based on the proposed framework. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular9Of2015.pdf 13 Feb 2015 16:05:00 +0200 The CMS hereby gives notice in advance to all stakeholders that the office will close early on Friday, 20 February, 2015. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular8Of2015.pdf 05 Feb 2015 16:36:00 +0200 All medical schemes are required to provide the CMS with dates on which they intend to hold their AGM's, SGM's and trustee elections during 2015. You are required to provide these dates by 27 February 2015. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular7Of2015.pdf 03 Feb 2015 11:25:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes conducted a study on the extent of Out Of Pocket Payments by Medical Scheme Members. The study was carried out for the 2013 calendar year. For the full report, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Research%20Briefs/RBOPPStudy2013.pdf 02 Feb 2015 16:02:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to inform all medical schemes and administrators of the Schemes Risk Measurement (SRM) data submissions for the 2014 calendar year. The required submissions will consist of data collected for quarters 1-4 of 2014. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular6Of2015.pdf 29 Jan 2015 13:43:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) wants to provide further information on the Real Time Monitoring submissions for 2015. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular5Of2015.pdf 29 Jan 2015 13:42:00 +0200 The Research and Monitoring Unit conducted a trend analysis study on chronic diseases in the private healthcare sector for the period 2008 – 2013. The study was a retrospective review of the Scheme Risk Measurement prevalence database. The main finding of the study is that there has been a sustained upward trend in diagnosis and treatment of many chronic conditions on the Chronic Disease List. Whilst this study is not yet in a position to isolate specific reasons for this increase in chronic diseases, the trend could still be generally attributed to improved data management systems of medical schemes and administrators, the deteriorating disease profile and increased beneficiary awareness of entitlements and changes in care-seeking behaviour. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Research%20Briefs/RBPrevCD20150128.pdf 28 Jan 2015 13:26:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 September 2014 today. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20140930.pdf 21 Jan 2015 13:48:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalised the 2014 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 4. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular4Of2015.pdf 16 Jan 2015 15:13:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript, three conditions that relate to the majority of enquiries will be discussed. The article will further provide information on how you as a member can manage your financial risk and ensure that out-of-pocket payments are as minimal as possible . To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript1Of2015.pdf 16 Jan 2015 15:12:20 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has issued the following draft Guidelines on the categorisation of assets in terms of Regulation 30 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (Act) read in conjunction with Annexure B. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular3Of2015.pdf 14 Jan 2015 12:24:00 +0200 The health care industry is in the third and fourth phase of the ICD-10 implementation plan. The dates of submission of compliance data to the Council for Medical Schemes are hereby announced, together with the new technical specification for the data submission. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular2Of2015.pdf 07 Jan 2015 16:04:00 +0200 Your attention is drawn to a technical issue which has arisen with the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) Smart Access number 0861123267 (0861 123 CMS), which directs callers to the CMS Customer Care Centre. This matter is receiving our urgent attention. You are requested to phone the CMS main reception telephone number (012) 431 0500 until this matter is resolved. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular1Of2015.pdf 07 Jan 2015 15:11:00 +0200 The curatorship of both Sizwe and Medshield medical schemes has been uplifted by the North Gauteng High Court on 15 December 2014 at the request of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease23Of2014.pdf 23 Dec 2014 16:50:00 +0200 This Circular serves to inform all stakeholders that the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors’ (IRBA) Proposed Guide for Registered Auditors: Engagements on the Annual Financial Statements and Annual Statutory Returns of a Medical Scheme (IRBA Guide) for the 2014 financial year has been published for comment by 10 February 2015. For the full circular please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular70Of2014.pdf 23 Dec 2014 16:50:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, withdrew the accreditation of Charlene Grigor (BR9974) as a broker of medical schemes as well as that of her healthcare brokerage Charmeir Consultants CC (Org 2638) under Regulation 28C of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (MSA). To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease22Of2014.pdf 22 Dec 2014 10:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical schemes published its proposed supplementary levy on medical schemes for 2015/16 in the Government Gazette on 19 December 2014, to view the general notice and the full consolidated budget click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular69Of2014.pdf 19 Dec 2014 15:55:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in open and restricted medical schemes for the year 2015. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular68Of2014.pdf 19 Dec 2014 14:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby publishes the guidelines for identifying medical scheme beneficiaries with risk factors in accordance with the entry and verification criteria (Version 8.1 of the Entry & Verification) applicable to cases reported from 1 January 2014. Medical schemes and administrators should take note of the updates and implement all the changes provided in Version 8.1 of the Entry & Verification guidelines. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular67Of2014.pdf 18 Dec 2014 16:18:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby publishes the benefit definition for Liver transplant. It is part of a process to better define PMB benefits through the development of explicit benefit definitions (BD) for PMB conditions as prescribed in the PMB regulations. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular66Of2014.pdf 12 Dec 2014 12:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry advises principal members to not only compare prices but choose the benefit option and scheme that is right for them and their families’ future healthcare needs during 2015. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease21Of2014.pdf 10 Dec 2014 09:53:00 +0200 This circular provides clarity on the funding of terminal care as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit. Click on the heading above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular65Of2014.pdf 08 Dec 2014 16:19:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) wants to provide further information on the Real Time Monitoring submissions for 2015. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular64Of2014.pdf 05 Dec 2014 15:55:00 +0200 The Council for Medical schemes published its proposed levy on medical schemes for 2015/16 in the Government Gazette on 1 December 2014, to view the general notice and the full consolidated budget click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular63Of2014.pdf 01 Dec 2014 10:16:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published the various prescribed audit report templates effective for the 2014 financial year. These statutory required auditor reports have been developed by the CMS in consultation with the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors’ (IRBA) Committee for Auditing Standard’s (CFAS) Medical Schemes Task Group, which includes auditors of medical schemes. For more information, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular62Of2014.pdf 27 Nov 2014 16:08:00 +0200 In support of the global initiative of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, held from 25 November to 10 December every year, this issue of CMScript focuses on sexual violence . To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript14Of2014.pdf 27 Nov 2014 11:14:00 +0200 Following industry consultation on the collection of the healthcare utilisation data, the Office of the Registrar hereby publishes the final technical guideline document (CMS Technical Guide Data Spec V2.0 ]]>) for completing the Utilisation section of the Annual Statutory Return. For details, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular61Of2014.pdf 25 Nov 2014 15:03:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) office will unfortunately be closed from 14:00 pm on 25 November and re-open on Wednesday, 26 November. This has been necessitated due to the major upgrading of the water network, which poses a health and safety risk to employees and visitors to the office. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular60Of2014.pdf 25 Nov 2014 13:47:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in open medical schemes for the year 2015. For details, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular59Of2014.pdf 24 Nov 2014 08:07:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, removed nine Board of Trustees members of Bestmed Medical Scheme from office for lack of fitness and propriety. Click on the heading above for more information. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease20Of2014.pdf 20 Nov 2014 16:15:00 +0200 The Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has appointed a new Council to oversee the governance of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry. Click on the heading above for more information. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease19Of2014.pdf 19 Nov 2014 13:46:00 +0200 The Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has re-appointed the retired North Gauteng and South Gauteng High Court Judge President Bernard Ngoepe has the Chairperson of the Appeal Board of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS). Dr Neville Bantu Jada and Dr Clemintina Ntombizodwa Ngobese have both been appointed to serve with Judge Ngoepe on the Appeal Board by Minister Motsoaledi with effect from 17 October 2014. To read more click, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease18Of2014.pdf 13 Nov 2014 16:42:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) Smart Access number 0861123267 (0861 123 CMS), which directs callers to the CMS Customer Care Centre is in use again. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular58Of2014.pdf 12 Nov 2014 15:18:00 +0200 As no changes to the Annual Statutory Return, parts 4 to 10, are envisaged relating to the 2014 financial year, the Council for Medical Schemes would appreciate an indication of whether an administrator / user workshop is still required. For the full document, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular57Of2014.pdf 07 Nov 2014 15:18:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, refused Juntos Brokers (Pty) Ltd application for renewal of its accreditation as a healthcare brokerage under Regulation 28B of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (MSA). To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease17Of2014.pdf 05 Nov 2014 14:46:00 +0200 The industry is invited to provide comments and/ or suggestions in respect of the 2014 Auditor Approval Questionnaire, which will be considered for the development of the questionnaire for 2015. To read more click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular56Of2014.pdf 05 Nov 2014 14:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) will for the first time together with The Institute of Health Risk Managers (IHRM) be offering a SAQA accredited four-day Trustee Skills Training Programme for medical scheme trustees and principal officers. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular54Of2014.pdf 04 Nov 2014 08:19:00 +0200 In this issue of CMS News we unpack the important topic of ethics which is crucial in everyday life, but more importantly in the way we run organisations. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMS%20News/CMSNews201411.pdf 31 Oct 2014 12:36:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Breast Cancer in line with Breast Cancer Awareness month. According to the National Cancer Registry, one in every 27 South African women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. It should be noted that breast cancer is not a women only disease. While breast cancer in men is rarely diagnosed there is a possibility for them to develop this disease. Conditions related to breast cancer are prescribed minimum benefit or PMB conditions. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript13Of2014.pdf 31 Oct 2014 10:46:00 +0200 Your attention is drawn to a technical issue which has arisen with the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) Smart Access number 0861123267 (0861 123 CMS), which directs callers to the CMS Customer Care Centre. This matter is receiving our urgent attention. You are requested to phone the CMS main reception telephone number (012) 431 0500 until this matter is resolved. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular53Of2014.pdf 30 Oct 2014 11:53:00 +0200 Council for Medical Schemes published the "Analysis of Schemes Risk Measurement returns – 2013" report. This report aims to assist individual schemes with the interpretation of scheme-specific results that are provided on the statutory returns portal on the CMS website. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/ITAP%20Documents/AnalysisOfSRM2013.pdf 29 Oct 2014 13:59:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 June 2014 today. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20140631.pdf 29 Oct 2014 13:29:00 +0200 The position of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has always been that medical schemes have to pay all legitimate claims legally owing to members within 30 days of the claim being submitted as provided for by the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998. Further, pre-authorisation can also not be withheld pending the undertaking of a member to lodge a third party claim. To read more, click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease16Of2014.pdf 28 Oct 2014 16:08:00 +0200 Medical Schemes and medical scheme administrators should please take note that the Department of Health’s Revenue Related Issues Directorate has received notification from Kimberley Hospital in the Northern Cape Province that the hospital was upgraded to a Level 3 Hospital to be reimbursed at this level. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular52Of2014.pdf 27 Oct 2014 15:12:00 +0200 This circular highlights the Council’s position on unwarranted performance or profit sharing incentive arrangements included in managed health care agreements. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular51Of2014.pdf 24 Oct 2014 16:04:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published Version 8.0 of the guidelines for identifying medical scheme beneficiaries with risk factors in accordance with the entry and verification criteria (E&V Criteria). To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular50Of2014.pdf 24 Oct 2014 09:44:00 +0200 This circular serves to inform all stakeholders that the 2014 SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide has been published. For the full circular please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular49Of2014.pdf 24 Oct 2014 08:34:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has strived to gain a better understanding of the various components of non-healthcare expenditure and its drivers, including the cost of bona fide administration fees relative to the total cost of administration of medical schemes. To read more, please click on the heading above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular48Of2014.pdf 21 Oct 2014 07:50:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) would like to provide further information on Real Time Monitoring. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular47Of2014.pdf 17 Oct 2014 13:10:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has finalised the 2014 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 3 for the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular46Of2014.pdf 14 Oct 2014 10:34:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) in its Annual Report of 2013-2014 stated that Dr Kaya Gobinca was removed as curator of Sizwe Medical Fund by the High Court. The report should have stated that the matter was instead settled and made an order of Court. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular45Of2014.pdf 03 Oct 2014 15:15:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to communicate with the Principal Officers, Board of Trustees, and other relevant stakeholders that the Office has issued its guidelines on the standard management accounts, ]]> the submission of reinsurance contracts. ]]> To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular44Of2014.pdf 02 Oct 2014 15:40:00 +0200 Beneficiaries as well as potential members of medical schemes and even healthcare practitioners across the country continue to request relevant information on medicals schemes from the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry. The CMS will avail a number of its staff to provide credible and helpful information to your listeners in a range of languages (English, Afrikaans, Setswana, etc.). To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease15of2014.pdf 30 Sept 2014 13:40:00 +0200 The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) found that the material irregularities at Medshield medical scheme justified the appointment of a curator by the Registrar of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) and that it was in the interest of the beneficiaries of the scheme. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease14of2014.pdf 29 Sept 2014 12:00:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 31 March 2014 today. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20140331.pdf 25 Sept 2014 09:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to caution the industry on the careful use of the utilisation statistics published in the Annual Report 2013/14. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular43Of2014.pdf 19 Sept 2014 09:00:00 +0200 The CMS has initiated a project to redesign and enhance the system it uses to collect the healthcare utilisation data with the purpose of improving the quality of data submitted by medical schemes as well as lessen the burden on schemes due to the manual submission process that the current system requires. The draft specification document has been published on the CMS website and you are hereby kindly requested to submit your comments regarding the draft specification document by 20 October 2014.To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular42Of2014.pdf 19 Sept 2014 15:19:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), the regulator of the medical schemes industry, together with ProBono.Org have set-up a Pro Bono Panel for medical scheme members. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease13Of2014.pdf 12 Sept 2014 10:45:00 +0200 To find the Guideline for Trustees Remuneration as developed by the Council for Medical Schemes access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular41Of2014.pdf 11 Sept 2014 15:09:00 +0200 The (CMS) has developed a second draft definition for Ischaemic heart disease, taking into account comments from stakeholders on the first draft. Affected stakeholders are invited to discuss the second draft by submitting written comments by 1 October 2014. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular40Of2014.pdf 09 Sept 2014 12:52:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Malaria. It is a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa where 81% of the global malaria cases and 90% of the deaths occur. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript12Of2014.pdf 05 Sept 2014 14:52:00 +0200 The purpose of this Circular is to bring to your attention the common problems and issues identified during the analysis of the auditor questionnaire in order to: • Enhance the quality information submitted in the questionnaire and • Reduce or eliminate errors. For more details please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular39Of2014.pdf 03 Sept 2014 11:28:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) released its annual report for 2013-2014, at its office in Centurion, Pretoria, (on 2 September) including a comprehensive report on South Africa's medical schemes industry. Click the link above to read the full press release. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease12Of2014.pdf 02 Sept 2014 11:57:00 +0200 All media are reminded to RSVP for a press conference on the morning of Tuesday, 2 September where the regulator of the medical schemes industry, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), Annual Report for 2013-2014 will be presented. To RSVP, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease11Of2014.pdf 29 Aug 2014 11:57:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) cordially invites you to the launch of their 2013-2014 Annual Report. For more information and to RSVP, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular38Of2014.pdf 27 Aug 2014 15:51:00 +0200 Journalists and Editors are cordially invited to attend a press conference on the morning of Tuesday, 2 September where the regulator of the medical schemes industry, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) Annual Report for 2013-2014 will be presented with a briefing on the state of SA's medical schemes industry. For more information, and to RSVP, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease10Of2014.pdf 19 Aug 2014 13:51:00 +0200 Please take note of the submission date extension for ICD-10 compliance data. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular37Of2014.pdf 18 Aug 2014 16:39:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar has finalised the 2014 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 2 for the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular36Of2014.pdf 14 Aug 2014 12:10:00 +0200 The CMS wishes to instruct all healthcare stakeholders that the ICD10 Dictionary published by Generics Dictionary should not be used to identify PMB conditions. PMB conditions may only be coded in accordance with the ICD-10 Master Industry Table published in 2013. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular35Of2014.pdf 08 Aug 2014 12:14:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on (Tuberculosis TB). TB is one of the leading causes of deaths in South Africa. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) statistics in 2011, an estimated 500 000 cases of active tuberculosis were reported. This means that about 1% of the population develop active TB each year. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript11Of2014.pdf 04 Aug 2014 14:12:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to provide medical schemes with guidance on benefit changes and contribution increases for the 2015 benefit year. For more details please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular34Of2014.pdf 24 Jul 2014 12:56:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes’ Education and Training Unit would like to invite all newly appointed Trustees to attend a two-day Introduction to Trusteeship Training, at no cost. For more details please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Board%20of%20Trustee%20Material/BTInvitation20140709.pdf 09 Jul 2014 11:05:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to notify Principal Officers and statutory return users that due to power failure in Centurion Eco Park since the beginning of the week, operational systems of the CMS have been affected. Resultantly, the deadline for submission of the Quarter 1 returns has been extended to the 18th of July 214 (initial deadline was 11th of July 2014). For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular33Of2014.pdf 03 Jul 2014 12:25:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is in safe hands whilst the investigation into allegations of corruption against the Chief Executive and Registrar, Dr Monwabisi Gantsho, is continuing. For more information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease9Of2014.pdf 30 Jun 2014 10:03:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Human Immunodeficiency Virus. All medical schemes are required by law to pay for the diagnosis, treatment and care costs of the condition in full. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript10Of2014.pdf 24 Jun 2014 12:20:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby notifies all stakeholders that Mr Danie Kolver, Head of Accreditation at CMS, is back at work. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular32Of2014.pdf 24 Jun 2014 12:15:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) is currently in the process of enhancing the format of the Annual Statutory Return for the 2014 financial year. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular31Of2014.pdf 23 Jun 2014 16:49:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and preparers of statutory returns to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2013 Annual Financial Statements and Statutory Returns. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular30Of2014.pdf 19 Jun 2014 14:12:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes would like to inform all users that the online auditor questionnaire for the 2014 financial year is now available on our website (www.medicalschemes.com). For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular29Of2014.pdf 18 Jun 2014 16:30:00 +0200 CMS presents its 4th Indaba which will focus on the market inquiry, trustee remuneration, ethics and a code of conduct, as well as treating customers fairly. For more details and to RSVP, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/4thIndabaInv2014.pdf 10 Jun 2014 17:22:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) recently had two cases ruled in its favour, and in the bigger picture to the benefit of members of medical schemes. For more information, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease%208Of2014.pdf 10 Jun 2014 17:22:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers and statutory return users with information on the 2014 quarterly statutory return submissions. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular28of2014.pdf 06 Jun 2014 13:30:00 +0200 In 2010, CMScript carried an article on Multiple Sclerosis, however, due to the amount and variety of complaints received by the CMS on the interpretation of the chronic disease list algorithm; this edition will attempt to recap on the PMB level of care and explain the recent appeal committee ruling on the interpretation of the PMB algorithm. Access the link above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript92014.pdf 04 Jun 2014 15:16:00 +0200 CMS invites as many stakeholders as possible to participate in the Stakeholder satisfaction survey. It will assist CMS to improve service levels and your opinion is critical for success of this research project. For more on the matter, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/CMSStakeholderSurvey.pdf 04 Jun 2014 12:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby gives notice to Medical Schemes and any person who it requires to provide information and /or contact details in terms of the Medical Act 131 of 1998. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular27Of2014.pdf 03 Jun 2014 11:25:00 +0200 Open Enrolment Following the Termination of Membership for Material Non-Disclosure. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular26Of2014.pdf 21 May 2014 16:57:00 +0200 Adjustment to fees payable to Brokers with effect from 1 February 2014. For the full document, access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular25Of2014.pdf 21 May 2014 08:46:00 +0200 The Open Day for Medical Scheme Administrators on Chronic Disease Management of Medical Scheme patients receiving treatment at public facilities has been postponed. Please access the link above to see the official notice from the Revenue Related Issues Directorate of the National Department of Health. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/AdminOpenDay20130519.pdf 19 May 2014 10:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes advised the Medical Schemes and Administrators of the new ICD-10 compliance data submission dates for the year 2014-15. Find out more by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular24Of2014.pdf 06 May 2014 15:57:00 +0200 The National Treasury (“NT”) releases, for further public comment, the second draft Demarcation Regulations, including an Explanatory Memorandum. Find out more by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease7Of2014.pdf 05 May 2014 15:32:00 +0200 The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria placed Hosmed Medical Scheme under provisional curatorship on Tuesday, 29 April 2014, following a successful application by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) to address governance concerns at the scheme. For the full document, please click here. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease6Of2014.pdf 30 April 2014 17:20:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to welcome all interested parties to provide suggested changes/input to the 2014 SAICA Accounting Guide. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular23Of2014.pdf 23 April 2014 14:17:00 +0200 Previous communication regarding the allegations made against Dr Monwabisi Gantsho, Chief Executive and Registrar of medical schemes, refers. For more on the matter, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular22Of2014.pdf 16 April 2014 17:00:50 +0200 The regulations to the Medical Schemes Act provide for specific principles that medical schemes may use to manage the financial risk associated with PMBs. These principles include designated service providers, managed care protocols and formularies. Access the link above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript82013_2014.pdf 15 April 2014 12:47:00 +0200 The Registrar has confirmed the merger between Discovery HMS and AFROX MAS. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular21of2014.pdf 03 April 2014 15:15:00 +0200 The Registrar has confirmed the merger between Discovery HMS and PG BISON MAS. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular20of2014.pdf 03 April 2014 14:15:00 +0200 Prostate cancer is second only to lung cancer as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men. It is one of the most common cancers in African men, estimated to constitute 9.5 percent of all male cancers. The good news is prostate cancer is treatable when detected early. Access the link above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript72013_2014.pdf 01 April 2014 12:00:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes (Office) has finalised the 2013 Annual Statutory Return online system. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular19Of2014.pdf 26 Mar 2014 12:25:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes reminds the Medical Schemes and Administrators of the 2014-15 data submission dates. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular18Of2014.pdf 25 Mar 2014 15:22:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) would like to provide further information on Real Time Monitoring submissions for 2014. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular17Of2014.pdf 20 Mar 2014 16:02:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published in the Government Gazette on 14 March 2014 a general notice on the imposition of levies on medicals schemes. For more information on this, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular16Of2014.pdf 17 Mar 2014 12:28:00 +0200 As a member of a medical scheme you would in recent years have noticed a range of codes shown on your doctor’s accounts and also on the statements of your medical scheme. You may well find these codes confusing and may be wondering why they have become a fixture on your accounts. In this CMScript we hope to shed some light on the codes that have become such an integral part of the modern medical schemes environment. Access the link above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript62013_2014.pdf 14 Mar 2014 14:44:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) announced today that it takes cognisance of the press release and issues raised by the Board of Health Care Funders (BHF). For more on the matter, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease5Of2014.pdf 14 Mar 2014 14:08:00 +0200 Recent developments and statements that appeared in the media have reference. The Council would like stakeholders to take note of the following points. For more on the matter, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular15Of2014.pdf 13 Mar 2014 12:21:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to notify stakeholders of the results of the analysis of cost increase assumptions for medical schemes for the year 2013. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular14Of2014.pdf 12 Mar 2014 15:04:00 +0200 Final Managed Health care services document published, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular13Of2014.pdf 12 Mar 2014 15:03:00 +0200 This issue of CMScript focuses on the rights and responsibilities of members with regards to disclosure of medical information on application of membership and waiting periods for new members. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript5Of2013_2014.pdf 07 Mar 2014 16:30:00 +0200 The Chairperson of CMS Council, Prof Yosuf Veriava, would like to ensure all CMS stakeholders that the leadership of CMS is not discouraged by the unsubstantiated allegations made against the organisation’s CEO and Registrar of medical schemes. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular12Of2014.pdf 07 Mar 2014 12:29:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) announces that the CMS Indaba, due to take place on 20 March 2014, has been cancelled. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular11Of2014.pdf 07 Mar 2014 12:28:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes published the training material for the administrator workshop for all users of the statutory return today. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Board%20of%20Trustee%20Material/AdminWrkshpMnl20140306.pdf 06 Mar 2014 15:32:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites you to the first Broker Training session on issues relating to members and prospective members of medical schemes. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular10Of2014.pdf 04 Mar 2014 15:53:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we continue the focus on exposure to the elements. This is the second part of a two-part series focusing on life threatening exposure to the elements. Conditions related to exposure to the elements are prescribed minimum benefit or PMB conditions. To read more, please accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript4Of2013_2014.pdf 03 Mar 2014 10:58:00 +0200 The Registrar has granted permission for the postponement of the amalgamation date between Discovery Health Medical Scheme and Afrox Medical Aid Society. To read more, please accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Cirular9Of2014.pdf 03 Mar 2014 10:23:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), Chairperson has issued a press release concerning allegations of corruption against the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Council for Medical Schemes, Monwabisi Gantsho and allegations of irregularities concerning the conduct and/or actions of the former provisional curator of Medshield, Themba Langa. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease4Of2014.pdf 28 Feb 2014 17:10:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on exposure to the elements. This is the first part of a two-part series focusing on life threatening exposure to the elements. Conditions related to exposure to the elements are prescribed minimum benefit or PMB conditions. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript3Of2013_2014.pdf 28 Feb 2014 09:08:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) announced today that Mr T.B. Langa has resigned as Provisional Curator of Medshield Medical Scheme. Find out more by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease3Of2014.pdf 27 Feb 2014 10:05:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD. Medical schemes are required to fund the prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs COPD is a PMBs condition and must be covered by medical aids. Medical cover for COPD includes diagnosis, treatment and care of the condition. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript2Of2013_2014.pdf 24 Feb 2014 08:40:00 +0200 In this issue of CMScript we focus on thyroid diseases and highlight which of these conditions are prescribed minimum benefit or PMB conditions. Medical schemes are required to fund the benefits prescribed in the Medical Schemes Act. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript1Of2013_2014.pdf 17 Feb 2014 16:38:00 +0200 The Registrar has approved the exposition document in the application for amalgamation between Discovery Health Medical Scheme and PG Bison Medical Aid Scheme. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular8Of2014.pdf 12 Feb 2014 16:51:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) wishes to warn all stakeholders of the delay in the delivery of their post as the unprotected strike of the South African Post Office (SAPO) continues. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular7Of2014.pdf 06 Feb 2014 16:44:00 +0200 The Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPI) was recently signed into law by the Honorable President of the Republic of South Africa. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular6Of2014.pdf 04 Feb 2014 16:16:00 +0200 This Circular is a reminder to all medical schemes that they are required to,notify the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), in writing, of the date/s of their Annual General Meetings (AGMs), Special General Meetings (SGMs). Please access the link above to find out more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular5Of2014.pdf 31 Jan 2014 14:34:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 September 2013 today. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20130930.pdf 30 Jan 2014 16:41:00 +0200 Registrar approves exposition document in the merger application between Discovery Health Medical Scheme and Afrox Medical Aid Society. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular4Of2014.pdf 28 Jan 2014 10:33:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, would like to engage with journalists and other media professionals during informal brunches in Johannesburg on 28 January 2014 and Cape Town on 4 February 2014. For more information, and to RSVP, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease2Of2014.pdf 23 Jan 2014 15:52:00 +0200 In this issue of CMS News we explore managed healthcare in all its facets. Forty-two years after the announcement of a new national health strategy by the Nixon administration in the United States of America (USA), and the development of health maintenance organisations (HMOs), we ask ourselves what difference has managed care made to medical schemes and its members in our own country? What constitutes effective managed healthcare? Read more at the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMS%20News/CMSNews201312.pdf 23 Jan 2014 15:38:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites all journalists, editors, and other members of the media fraternity to an informal networking brunch in Johannesburg on 28 January 2014. To find out more and RSVP, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease1Of2014.pdf 16 Jan 2014 16:42:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) will be hosting a workshop to go through the most recent changes to the annual return. The workshop will be held in Johannesburg on 7 March 2014. Access the link above to find out more and register before 14 February 2014. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular3Of2014.pdf 16 Jan 2014 15:18:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes extends the submission deadline for the trustee remuneration online survey. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular2Of2014.pdf 14 Jan 2014 15:00:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2013 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 4 of 2013. For the full document, please access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular1Of2014.pdf 01 Jan 2014 11:55:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in open and restricted medical schemes for the year 2014. For details, please access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular57Of2013.pdf 20 Dec 2013 15:54:00 +0200 Topmed Medical Scheme and Pharos Medical Plan merge on 1 January 2014. To read more, please access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular56Of2013.pdf 17 Nov 2013 16:15:00 +0200 The purpose of this Circular is to provide a summary of the main changes to the 2013 Annual Statutory Return. Click on the link above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular55Of2013.pdf 17 Nov 2013 15:57:00 +0200 The independent Appeal Board has dismissed an appeal against the decision of Council to remove three trustees from the Board of Hosmed Medical Scheme. Council had removed the trustees from office after it found that they were not fit and proper to run a medical scheme. Read more at the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease20Of2013.pdf 12 Nov 2013 16:32:00 +0200 The High Court in Pretoria has found that medical schemes must exhaust all internal remedies available at the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) before they approach the courts. Decisions of the Registrar can be appealed to the Appeals Committee of Council, and its rulings can in turn be challenged with the independent Appeal Board. Read more at the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease19Of2013.pdf 12 Nov 2013 12:02:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) wishes to express its condolences and support to the Mandela family and South Africa on the passing of Mr Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, fondly known as Tata Madiba. To read the full statement, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease18Of2013.pdf 09 Nov 2013 19:31:00 +0200 The due date for 2013 SRM submission is 4 April 2014. Medical schemes and administrators should take note of the recent updates and implement all the changes provided in Version 7.1 of the Entry & Verification guidelines. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular54Of2013.pdf 04 Nov 2013 21:24:00 +0200 The Council for Medical schemes published its proposed levy on medical schemes for 2014/15 in the Government Gazette on 22 November 2013, to view the general notice and the full consolidated budget, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular53Of2013.pdf 02 Nov 2013 14:35:00 +0200 The industry is invited to provide comments and/ or suggestions in respect of the 2013 Auditor Approval Questionnaire, which will be considered for the development of the questionnaire for 2014. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular52Of2013.pdf 29 Nov 2013 12:02:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in open medical schemes for the year 2014. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular51Of2013.pdf 22 Nov 2013 17:37:00 +0200 In order to define and clarify managed care services, and to standardise the naming conventions used by the Council, medical schemes, managed health care organisations (MCOs), administrators and other stakeholders in the industry, it was decided to draft a document setting out the "accreditable" managed care services. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular50Of2013.pdf 18 Nov 2013 15:39:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 June 2013 today. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20130630.pdf 14 Nov 2013 15:15:00 +0200 The Registrar confirms the merger between Discovery Health Medical Scheme and Altron Medical Aid Scheme. For more details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular49Of2013.pdf 12 Nov 2013 17:25:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) will be holding its third stakeholder Indaba under the theme "The Balance between Quality Healthcare Services and Costs". To access the invite, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/3rdCMSINDABA2013.pdf 12 Nov 2013 17:23:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes published an update on the Medical Schemes Amendment Bill and current legal processes that affect the industry. For more details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular48Of2013.pdf 08 Nov 2013 14:34:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has appointed Ernst & Young South Africa to conduct a detailed study on the current practices of remunerating trustees within medical schemes. For more details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular47Of2013.pdf 08 Nov 2013 14:32:00 +0200 We are reviewing Version 6.1 of the guidelines of the Scheme Risk Measurement (SRM) entry and verification criteria in preparation for Version 7 of these guidelines, which will be applicable to cases from 1 January 2013. Kindly submit written comments for consideration before Friday 8 November 2013. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular46Of2013.pdf 31 Oct 2013 15:57:00 +0200 Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 63(4) of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 that hard copies of the exposition and supporting documents for the intended amalgamation of Topmed Medical Scheme and Pharos Medical Plan will lie open for inspection and comments from 25 October 2013 to 14 November 2013 and 14 November 2013 to 5 December 2013 respectively. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular45Of2013.pdf 30 Oct 2013 10:46:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2013 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 3 of 2013. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular44Of2013.pdf 21 Oct 2013 16:34:00 +0200 At the Principal Officer and Board of Trustee Forum meeting a request for In-depth Trustee Training was made. For more details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular43Of2013.pdf 04 Oct 2013 14:20:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has confirmed the sale of the administration business of Medihelp Medical Scheme to Strata Healthcare Management (Pty) Ltd. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular42Of2013.pdf 04 Oct 2013 14:18:00 +0200 This circular serves to inform all stakeholders that the 2013 SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide has been published. For the full circular, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular41Of2013.pdf 02 Oct 2013 16:27:00 +0200 The office of the Registrar is in the process of enhancing its guidelines on the preparation of various business plans and standard management accounts and request input from the industry. To read the full statement, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular40Of2013.pdf 01 Oct 2013 16:31:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 31 March 2013 today. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QRMarch2013.pdf 30 Sep 2013 16:10:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes approves the exposition document to lie open for comments and/or objections. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular39Of2013.pdf 27 Sep 2013 10:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has received numerous requests from brokers and broker houses to provide training to brokers, specifically on issues relating to members and prospective members of medical schemes. For more on this circular, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular38Of2013.pdf 26 Sep 2013 14:33:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to notify all brokers and broker organisations as well as medical schemes and medical scheme administrators of the publication of accreditation procedure relating to brokers and broker organisations as well as the amendments to the accreditation application forms on the CMS website. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular%2037%20for%20broker%20accreditation.pdf 18 Sep 2013 14:33:00 +0200 As of yesterday, Johannes M. Seloane is the new man in charge of Sizwe Medical Fund following the resignation of the original curator. For more on this story, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease17Of2013.pdf 11 Sep 2013 14:37:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, released its latest Annual Report earlier today. The report is now available on its website. A summary can be found at the link above . http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease16Of2013.pdf 03 Sep 2013 16:31:00 +0200 If you are a journalist or editor, or otherwise employed in the media industry, why not join the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, for the launch of its latest Annual Report? The press conference will be held at its new premises in Centurion tomorrow (Tuesday, 3 September 2013), and if you are unable to attend, a dial-in service is available. Find out more by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease15Of2013.pdf 02 Sep 2013 12:39:00 +0200 If you are a journalist or editor, or otherwise employed in the media industry, why not join the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, for the launch of its latest Annual Report? The press conference will be held at its new premises in Centurion next week Tuesday (3 September 2013). Find out more by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease14Of2013.pdf 28 Aug 2013 15:52:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes confirms the merger between Bestmed and Minemed Medical Schemes. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular36Of2013.pdf 26 Aug 2013 16:10:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), regulator of the medical schemes industry, invites all journalists, editors, and other members of the media fraternity to the official launch of its latest Annual Report. The details of the event can be found in the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease13Of2013.pdf 22 Aug 2013 10:33:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2012 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 2 of 2012. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular35Of2013.pdf 16 Aug 2013 14:28:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has approved the exposition document in the merger between Bestmed and Minemed Medical Schemes to lie open for inspection and objections. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular32Of2013.pdf 09 Jul 2013 14:22:00 +0200 The 2013 version of the ICD-10 Master Industry Table has been published and stakeholders are urged to update their systems accordingly. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular31Of2013.pdf 21 Jun 2013 08:47:00 +0200 Users are notified of the availability of the 2013 Auditor Questionnaire for auditor approval process. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular30Of2013.pdf 14 Jun 2013 17:47:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and preparers of statutory returns to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2012 Annual Financial Statements and Statutory Returns. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular28Of2013.pdf 12 Jun 2013 19:10:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers and statutory return users with information on the 2013 quarterly statutory return submissions. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular27Of2013.pdf 06 Jun 2013 13:00:00 +0200 Discovery Health and IBM Medical Schemes merger confirmed. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular26Of2013.pdf 05 Jun 2013 12:00:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) is currently in the process of enhancing the format of the Annual Statutory Return for the 2013 financial year. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular25Of2013.pdf 03 Jun 2013 15:21:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to welcome all interested parties to provide suggested changes/input to the 2013 SAICA Accounting Guide and SAICA Audit Committee Guide. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular24Of2013.pdf 03 Jun 2013 15:10:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), today said that it warmly welcomed the appointment of Mr Ebrahim Mohamed as Commissioner of the National Consumer Commission (NCC). For more on the matter, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease12Of2013.pdf 03 Jun 2013 10:28:00 +0200 A former trustee of Liberty Medical Scheme has been ordered to pay back the R1.7 million he had received from the scheme in terms of an illegal settlement agreement which saw him prematurely resigning from the scheme’s Board and agreeing not to assist the regulator with any possible investigation into the scheme. For more on this story, go to the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease11Of2013.pdf 30 May 2013 09:18:00 +0200 Medihelp Medical Scheme want to sell its administration business to Strata Healthcare Management (Pty) Ltd. Please access the link above for more information. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular23Of2013.pdf 29 May 2013 15:39:00 +0200 After 13 years in Hatfield, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) will be moving to new premises in Centurion. Its offices will be temporarily closed between 13:00 tomorrow, 16 May 2013, and 8:00 on Wednesday, 22 May 2013. Please access the link above for more information. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease10of2013.pdf 15 May 2013 10:15:00 +0200 Selfmed Medical Scheme and the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) have agreed to replace Selfmed’s Acting Principal Officer, Chief Executive Officer, and Marketing Director. A new Board of Trustees must also be elected. For more on the matter, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease9Of2013.pdf 08 May 2013 08:28:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) as part of its broader regulatory mandate, monitors, inter alia, the financial soundness of medical schemes. There are several tools used to support this function and collect data from medical schemes – one such tool is the Real Time Monitoring (RTM) system. We are pleased to report that the RTM system has now fully stabilized and the CMS is now ready to fully implement it. For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular22Of2013.pdf 29 Apr 2013 16:44:00 +0200 The publication of the updated ICD-10 code Master Industry Table (MIT) necessitated the Clinical Review Committee to review the CMS PMB ICD-10 Coded list published in 2008. The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites all stakeholders to comment on the 2013 PMB ICD-10 Coded list. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular21Of2013.pdf 29 Apr 2013 10:12:00 +0200 Attend your medical scheme’s Annual General Meeting, answer two easy questions using the Facebook and Twitter accounts of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) – and stand a chance to have your scheme contributions paid for three months! The CMS launched a healthcare consumer education campaign and competition last week to encourage medical scheme beneficiaries to become more involved in the affairs of their respective schemes. Find out more by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease8Of2013.pdf 18 Apr 2013 16:17:00 +0200 As previously indicated CMS will relocate to new premises in May 2013. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular20Of2013.pdf 16 Apr 2013 11:37:00 +0200 Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 63(4) of the Medical Schemes Act (Act 131 of 1998) that the exposition document and supporting documents of Discovery Health Medical Scheme and IBM Medical Scheme will lie open for inspection. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular19Of2013.pdf 12 Apr 2013 13:46:00 +0200 Medical schemes and administrators are hereby reminded of the 2013/14 ICD-10 compliance data submissions. Medical schemes are required to submit high-level data showing compliance with the International Classification of Diseases – 10th Revision (ICD-10) according to a predetermined specification set out by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS). For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular18Of2013.pdf 10 Apr 2013 17:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes launched a healthcare consumer education campaign entitled ‘it starts with you’. Medical Schemes, brokers and administrators are requested to market the campaign to their members and encourage them to enter the competition after attending their Annual General Meeting (AGM). For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease7Of2013.pdf 08 Apr 2013 11:22:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes launched a healthcare consumer education campaign entitled 'it starts with you'. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease7Of2013.pdf 08 Apr 2013 09:22:00 +0200 Policy Document on the requirements for and process with regard to the accreditation of Health Care Brokers and Broker Organisations. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Brokers/PolicyOnAccOfBrNOrg2013.pdf 05 Apr 2013 12:39:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes (Office) has finalised the 2012 Annual Statutory Return online system, which is now available on our website (https://www.medicalschemes.com/Returns/login.aspx). For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular17Of2013.pdf 04 Apr 2013 10:12:00 +0200 As previously indicated CMS will relocate to new premises in May 2013. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular%2016%20CMS%20new%20address.pdf 28 Mar 2013 12:05:00 +0200 The latest issue of CMScript, which is the electronic newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), takes a closer look at spinal cord compression. To read the full article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript8Of2012_2013.pdf 25 Mar 2013 04:41:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is launching a pilot project to explore the application of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to the standard appeals procedure currently in place. The process is voluntary and without prejudice, and is expected to give parties the opportunity to settle disputes by agreement. For more details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular15Of2013.pdf 25 Mar 2013 09:56:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) hereby invites the medical schemes industry to comment on the proposed Protection of Personal Information Bill (or POPI) currently being piloted by the National Council of Provinces. Your comments should reach the CMS by next week. For more details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular14Of2013.pdf 25 Mar 2013 09:55:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at funding for the eye condition, Glaucoma. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript7Of2012_2013.pdf 19 Mar 2013 10:56:00 +0200 Bestmed Medical Scheme and Sappi Medical Scheme merger confirmed. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular13Of2013.pdf 11 Mar 2013 17:07:00 +0200 All medical schemes are therefore required to provide the CMS with the dates on which they intend to hold their AGMs and SGMs and trustee elections during 2013. You are required to provide these dates by Thursday, 28 March 2013. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular12Of2013.pdf 05 Mar 2013 14:52:00 +0200 To access the final agenda for the CMS’2nd Indaba, please click on the link above. RSVP: forums@medicalschemes.com http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/ScndCMSINDABA2013.pdf 25 Feb 2013 17:07:36 +0200 Judge Bernard M. Ngoepe is the new Chairperson of the Appeal Board of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS). Find out more about him – and about the CMS complaints and appeals processes – by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease6Of%202013.pdf 22 Feb 2013 14:31:00 +0200 The purpose of this Circular is to provide a summary of the main changes to the 2012 Annual Statutory Return. Access the link above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular11Of2013.pdf 21 Feb 2013 09:36:00 +0200 Sizwe Medical Fund and the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to assure beneficiaries and providers alike that the scheme is financially sound and able to honour its claims despite it being placed under curatorship. To see the joint statement, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease5Of2013.pdf 20 Feb 2013 09:25:00 +0200 In a historic judgement handed down by the High Court last month, the trustees of Medshield have been ordered to pay legal fees estimated at R1 million out of their own pockets for entering into illegal contracts with service providers described as “not inconsiderable wasteful expenditure”. The court also confirmed that the provisional curator will stay on and continue to manage the affairs of the scheme until a new Board of Trustees is elected. To find out more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease4Of2013.pdf 12 Feb 2013 08:41:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) will be holding its second stakeholder Indaba under the theme "The Value of Managed Care". To access the invite, please click on the link above. We hope to see you in Cape Town!. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/ScndCMSINDABA2013.pdf 11 Feb 2013 16:32:00 +0200 Due to the move and to ensure everything runs according to our very tight project plan, the office will be temporarily closed on Friday, 26 April and Monday, 29 April 2013. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular9Of2013.pdf 11 Feb 2013 16:53:00 +0200 The industry is invited to attend a meeting of ITAP that will take place on 7 March 2013 at the CSIR, Pretoria. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular8Of2013.pdf 11 Feb 2013 16:23:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) will be relocating from its present premises at Block E Hadefields, 1267 Pretorius Street Hatfield to its new premises at Block A Eco Glades 2 Office Park, Cnr Witch-Hazel and Olivenhoutbosch Road, Highveld Techno Park, Centurion 0157. The anticipated date of occupation is 2 May 2013. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular5Of2013.pdf 01 Feb 2013 10:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to notify stakeholders of the results of the analysis of cost increase assumptions for medical schemes for the year 2013. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular4Of2013.pdf 01 Feb 2013 09:28:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 September 2012 today. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR320120930.pdf 31 Jan 2013 08:44:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to inform medical schemes and administrators of the changes in the Entry and Verification guidelines and submission dates for the Schemes Risk Measurement data. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Ciruclar3Of2013.pdf 30 Jan 2013 17:04:00 +0200 The Chairperson of Liberty Medical Scheme has failed in his efforts to prevent the regulator of medical schemes from proceeding with an enquiry into his fitness and propriety to hold the office of trustee. To find out more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease3Of2013.pdf 29 Jan 2013 14:01:00 +0200 The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria on Tuesday ruled that the Board of Sizwe Medical Fund continues to be improperly constituted and confirmed that a curator must keep running the scheme. To find out more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease2Of2013.pdf 25 Jan 2013 14:30:00 +0200 CMS has extended deadline for the submissions of comments on Circular 44 of 2012 from 11 January 2013 to 31 January 2013. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular2Of2013.pdf 16 Jan 2013 16:56:00 +0200 The Minister of Health has appointed Prof. Yosuf Veriava to head the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) as its Chairperson. Prof. Veriava is the Special Advisor to the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. To find out more about him, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease1Of2013.pdf 08 Jan 2013 12:24:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2012 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 4 of 2012. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular1Of2013.pdf 08 Jan 2013 07:37:00 +0200 Notice is hereby given that the Council for Medical Schemes will be closed to the public from Monday 24 December 2012 to Tuesday 1 January 2013. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/extras/OfficeClosureNotice2012.pdf 21 Dec 2012 11:05:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at when an emergency is an emergency. To read the article, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript6Of2012_2013.pdf 21 Dec 2012 11:02:00 +0200 The Registrar would like give notice that the proposed amalgamation between Discovery Health Medical Scheme and Nampak (SA) Medical Scheme from 1 March 2013 has been confirmed. For more information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular48Of2012.pdf 19 Dec 2012 17:28:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in Open and Restricted Medical Schemes for the year 2013. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular47Of2012.pdf 18 Dec 2012 16:40:00 +0200 Bestmed Medical Scheme and SAPPI Medical Aid Scheme intend to merge on 1 April 2013. If you have an objection to this, you have until 10 January 2013 to submit it in writing. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular45Of2012.pdf 07 Dec 2012 11:35:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at funding for solid organ transplants. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript5Of2012_2013.pdf 07 Dec 2012 10:00:00 +0200 Draft broker policy document for comments. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular44Of2012.pdf 06 Dec 2012 11:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in open medical schemes for the year 2013. For details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/SchemeList2013.pdf 23 Nov 2012 16:28:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 Jun 2012 today. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QR20121116.pdf 19 Nov 2012 08:23:50 +0200 Users are invited to provide suggestions or comments in terms of the 2012 Auditor Approval questionnaire which will be considered for the 2013 Auditor approval questionnaire. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular42Of2012.pdf 09 Nov 2012 16:42:00 +0200 This circular serves to prescribe the format for the Statement of Comprehensive Income as well as disclosures required in respect of Personal Medical Savings Accounts. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular41Of2012.pdf 31 Oct 2012 14:09:00 +0200 This circular serves to inform all stakeholders that the 2012 SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide has been published. For the full circular, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular40Of2012.pdf 29 Oct 2012 15:18:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what treatment and care is covered for schizophrenia. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript4Of2012_2013.pdf 19 Oct 2012 16:36:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) invites comments on the selected list of hospital indicators that are collected through the annual statutory data collection tool. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular39Of2012.pdf 17 Oct 2012 15:35:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2012 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 3 of 2012. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular38Of2012.pdf 16 Oct 2012 11:41:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has published a discussion document on guidelines for identifying beneficiaries with risk factors in accordance with the entry and verification criteria. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular37Of2012.pdf 08 Oct 2012 14:18:00 +0200 The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria placed Medshield Medical Scheme under provisional curatorship today(02 Oct 2012), following the successful application of the Council for Medical Schemes to address governance concerns at the scheme. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease17Of2012.pdf 03 Oct 2012 08:00:00 +0200 The office of the Registrar is in the process of enhancing its guidelines on the preparation of various business plans and standard management accounts and request input from the industry. To read the full statement, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular35Of2012.pdf 02 Oct 2012 16:32:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has confirmed the merger between Bonitas Medical Fund and Pro Sano Medical Scheme with effect from 1 Oct 2012. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular34Of2012.pdf 28 Sep 2012 17:00:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 31 Mar 2012 today. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QRep20130331.pdf 28 Sep 2012 14:56:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what treatment and care is covered for hernias under PMBs. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript3Of2012_2013.pdf 28 Sep 2012 08:22:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is concerned that some entities in the medical schemes industry employ false advertising strategies to deliberately mislead the public. Council is also concerned over the exceptionally high fees which some medical schemes pay to their administrators. To read the full statement, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease16Of2012.pdf 18 Sep 2012 16:50:00 +0200 The North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria placed Sizwe Medical Fund under provisional curatorship yesterday, following the successful application of the Council for Medical Schemes to address governance concerns at the scheme. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease15Of2012.pdf 05 Sep 2012 10:07:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has just released its latest Annual Report, for the 2011-2012 financial year. The report contains an overview of the operations of medical schemes in their 2011 financial year as well as a summary of Council’s activities in its financial year spanning 1 Apr 2011 to 31 Mar 2012. For highlights of the Annual Report and more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease14Of2012.pdf 04 Sep 2012 13:11:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes will launch its latest Annual Report at a press conference in Pretoria tomorrow morning (Tuesday, 4 Sep 2012). If you are a journalist or editor and wish to attend or merely listen in on the proceedings, please access the link above for more information. We hope to see you there. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/FinalInvitationAR2012.pdf 03 Sep 2012 11:18:00 +0200 The curatorship of Bonitas Medical Fund, the third-largest medical scheme, comes to an end today, and a new Board of Trustees takes over tomorrow. For more information, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease12Of2012.pdf 31 Aug 2012 15:30:00 +0200 As far as the proposed merger between Bonitas Medical Fund and Pro Sano Medical Scheme goes, the inspection period expires on 3 Sep 2012 and the period within which to lodge representations expires on 25 Sep 2012. For more details please, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular33Of2012.pdf 31 Aug 2012 10:48:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes will launch its latest Annual Report at a press conference in Pretoria next week Tuesday, 4 Sep 2012. Should you wish to attend or merely listen in on the proceedings, please access the link above for more information. We hope to see you there. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease11Of2012.pdf 30 Aug 2012 09:53:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites Principal Officers, Chairpersons of Boards and other Board members to a presentation and discussion of its Annual Report 2011-2012 and latest industry trends. The presentations will take place in Cape Town and Johannesburg in Sep. To find out more and to book your seat/s, access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Annual%20Reports/ReminderARRoadShows2012.pdf 27 Aug 2012 16:52:00 +0200 The Registrar would like give notice that the exposition and supporting documents for the proposed amalgamation between Bonitas Medical Fund and Pro Sano Medical Scheme on 1 Oct 2012 has been approved for viewing and comment in terms of section 63 of the Medical Schemes Act no 131 of 1998. Please access the link above for further information. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular32Of2012.pdf 15 Aug 2012 15:42:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes will launch its latest Annual Report at a press conference in Pretoria on 4 Sep 2012. Should you wish to attend or merely listen in on the proceedings, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/ARInviteLaunch2012.pdf 14 Aug 2012 09:07:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2012 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 2 of 2012. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular31Of2012.pdf 13 Aug 2012 16:46:00 +0200 The Registrar has confirmed the merger between Resolution Health Medical Scheme (Resolution Health) and the National Independent Medical Aid Society (NIMAS) with effect from 1 Aug 2012. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular30Of2012.pdf 27 Jul 2012 16:52:00 +0200 Updated supplier database forms have been published today. To view the application forms, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Suppliers/CMSSupplierDatabaseForm.pdf 26 Jul 2012 16:23:00 +0200 Dr Monwabisi Gantsho, Registrar of Medical Schemes and Chief Executive of the Council for Medical Schemes, refutes media reports alleging that the National Consumer Commissioner has taken Council to court over allowing medical schemes to allegedly discriminate against women and foreign nationals. To read the full press release, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease9Of2012.pdf 20 Jul 2012 12:25:00 +0200 Office of the Registrar would like to inform schemes as to the requirements for the submission of contribution increases and benefit changes for 2013. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular29Of2012.pdf 17 Jul 2012 12:10:00 +0200 The Council for medical Schemes is extending the period for making submission on the scheme solvency framework until 31 Jul 2012. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular28Of2012.pdf 05 Jul 2012 18:10:00 +0200 Unlawful practices involving direct marketing and provision of managed care services to the public. Certain managed care services are not required to be accredited. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular27Of2012.pdf 04 Jul 2012 08:08:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) is currently in the process of enhancing the format of the Annual Statutory Return for the 2012 financial year. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular26Of2012.pdf 29 Jun 2012 14:25:00 +0200 The Minister of Health published a Government Notice authorising medical schemes to adjust the maximum fees payable to accredited health care brokers with effect from 1 May 2012. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular25Of2012.pdf 29 Jun 2012 08:31:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what treatment and care is covered for club foot under PMBs. To read the article, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript2Of2012_2013.pdf 26 Jun 2012 16:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to welcome all interested parties to provide suggested changes/input to the 2011 SAICA Accounting Guide. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular24Of2012.pdf 22 Jun 2012 17:31:00 +0200 This Circular seeks to advise schemes that in terms of Explanatory Note 2 to Annexure B, 20% of the scheme’s assets in terms of Regulation 30 must be directly invested with banks and not via insurance policies, collective investment schemes or managed portfolios. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular23Of2012.pdf 19 Jun 2012 11:56:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and preparers of statutory returns to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2011 Annual Financial Statements and Statutory Returns. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular22Of2012.pdf 14 Jun 2012 16:04:00 +0200 The 2012 Auditor Approval questionnaire is available to users for completion on our website. Kindly refer to Circular 21 of 2012 by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular21Of2012.pdf 13 Jun 2012 15:55:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes, regulator of and ombudsman for the medical schemes industry, salutes the late paleoanthropologist, Prof. Phillip Tobias. To read the full press release, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease8Of2012.pdf 06 Jun 2012 18:24:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers and statutory return users with information on the 2011 quarterly statutory return submissions. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular19Of2012.pdf 04 Jun 2012 08:29:00 +0200 The Registrar would like give notice that the exposition and supporting documents for the proposed amalgamation between Resolution Health Medical Scheme and NIMAS on 1 Aug 2012 has been approved for viewing and comment in terms of section 63 of the Medical Schemes Act no 131 of 1998. Please access the link above for more information. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular18Of2012.pdf 04 Jun 2012 08:28:00 +0200 The office of the Registrar invites the industry to the ITAP meeting and also reminds the industry of the invitation extended by CMS for submission of discussion document on the solvency framework. To read more, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular%2017%20of%202012%20-%20Retap%20invite%20Jul%202012.pdf 25 May 2012 11:35:00 +0200 The representative body of medical schemes has failed to convince a court to allow them to appeal against a judgement in which the court had confirmed that the prescribed minimum benefits guaranteed to members of medical schemes stand. For more, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease7Of2012.pdf 16 May 2012 16:34:00 +0200 Registrar for Medical Schemes invites all interested parties to comment on the discussion document that forms part of the participatory process to develop communication guidelines as part of the Code of Conduct in respect of prescribed minimum benefits. To read more, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular16Of2011.pdf 16 May 2012 11:23:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what treatment and care is covered for hyperlipidaemia under PMBs. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript1Of2012_2013.pdf 14 May 2012 16:24:00 +0200 An independent appeal board has ruled that the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) must accept any and all who wish to join the scheme, the only condition being that the applicants be previous or current employees of the South African government or a public entity created by statute. For the full statement, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease6Of2012.pdf 11 May 2012 09:58:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published a general notice on the imposition of levies on medical schemes in the Government Gazette. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular14Of2012.pdf 17 Apr 2012 11:50:00 +0200 The Industry Technical Advisory Panel convened its inaugural meeting on Mar 8, 2012. The meeting resulted in three key outcomes to kick start the work of the panel. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular12of2012.pdf 14 Mar 2012 15:12:00 +0200 You are involved in a road accident so you claim from the Road Accident Fund (RAF); you are also a member of a medical scheme so your scheme covers your treatment. But if RAF pays you out, you must refund a portion of the money to your scheme. For more clarity on subrogation, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease4of2012.pdf 12 Mar 2012 15:08:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what treatment and care is covered for bipolar mood disorder. To read the article, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript7Of20112012.pdf 07 Mar 2012 16:14:00 +0200 Regulator of the industry, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), has published submission dates for ICD-10 Compliance data in 2012. To view the dates, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular10Of2012.pdf 05 Mar 2012 15:22:00 +0200 An independent appeal board has ruled that obesity alone cannot prevent you from undergoing joint replacement surgery, and that your medical scheme cannot use your weight to deny you access to benefits. To read the full press release, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease2of2012.pdf 03 Mar 2012 10:17:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes (Office) has finalised the 2011 Annual Statutory Return online system, which is now available on our website. http://www.medicalschemes.com/Returns/login.aspx 01 Mar 2012 17:10:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to remind all Principal officers and BoT members to notify the CMS in writing (20 days before convening a meeting in terms of the rules) of a date and venue on which they intend to hold an Annual General Meeting or Special General Meeting. To read more, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular7Of2012.pdf 24 Feb 2012 15:10:00 +0200 In the latest issue of its official newsletter, the Council for Medical Schemes illustrates, using stories from real life, how the prescribed minimum benefits protect members of medical schemes. To access the electronic version of the newsletter, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMS%20News/CMSNews1Of2011_2012.pdf 23 Feb 2012 15:05:43 +0200 Feedback to the medical schemes industry on the Risk Equalisation Technical Advisory Panel (RETAP). For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular6of2012.pdf 21 Feb 2012 15:56:00 +0200 The Office has received a number of representations regarding the contents of Circular 38 of 2011 (Personal Medical Savings Accounts), its interpretation and certain practical constraints relating to the implementation by 1 Jan 2012. The purpose of this clarifying circular is to provide further guidance to schemes in complying with the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 and the Financial Institutions (Protection of Funds) Act 28 of 2001 as confirmed by the Omnihealth judgment. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular5of2012.pdf 21 Feb 2012 09:04:00 +0200 The Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled that the Council for Medical Schemes did not defame Selfmed Medical Scheme when the regulator alluded to concerns over the scheme’s governance in its Annual Report of 2004-2005. For more information, see link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease1Of2012.pdf 16 Feb 2012 08:45:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes will be presenting a workshop to parties affected by these changes during Mar 2012. We are aware that this is the period when you are preparing for the annual audit of your schemes, but would like to encourage you to attend this workshop. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular4of2012.pdf 02 Feb 2012 16:49:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 Sep 2011 today. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QuarterlyReport20110930.pdf 31 Jan 2012 16:49:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what treatment and care is covered for substance abuse under PMBs. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript%206Of2011_2012.pdf 20 Jan 2012 16:34:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to remind all stakeholders to submit their comments on trustee remuneration discussion document. For details, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular3of2012.pdf 13 Jan 2012 12:53:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2011 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 4 of 2011. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular2of2012.pdf 10 Jan 2012 15:35:00 +0200 The Appeal Board set aside the suspension based on procedural grounds. Access the link above for more details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular1of2012.pdf 05 Jan 2012 11:08:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to notify stakeholders of the results of the analysis of cost increase assumptions for medical schemes for the year 2012. For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular54Of2011.pdf 21 Dec 2011 15:26:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to notify stakeholders of the benefit options in open and restricted medical schemes for the year 2012. For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular53of2011.pdf 20 Dec 2011 15:50:00 +0200 The High Court in Pretoria has ruled on the correct interpretation of a rule of Profmed Medical Scheme. Access the link above for more details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease12of2011.pdf 12 Dec 2011 16:25:00 +0200 The South African Reserve Bank has issued Exchange Control circular 22/2011 dated 7 Dec 2011, clarifying the announcement by the Minister of Finance in his Medium Term Budget Policy Statement when he announced that all inward listed shares on the JSE Limited, traded and settled in Rand, will be classified as domestic for the purpose of trading on the exchange. Click on the link above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular52Of2011.pdf 12 Dec 2011 16:20:00 +0200 On the 7 Nov 2011 Judge Pretorius of the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled that the Board of Healthcare Funders of Southern Africa (BHF) had no legal standing to bring an application on behalf of some medical schemes for a declarator on the interpretation of Regulation 8 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular51.pdf 09 Dec 2011 12:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published in the Government Gazette on 2 Dec 2011 a general notice on the proposed levies on medicals schemes. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular50.pdf 07 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes invites Principal Officers to the RETAP meeting to discuss the REF project meeting. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular49.pdf 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes requests your input on the need for medical schemes to comply with King III and to issue an integrated sustainability report. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular%2048%202011.pdf 01 Dec 2011 10:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has published an amended and updated checklist for Managed Care Organizations. For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Managed%20Care%20Organisations/MHC%20Self%20Evaluating%20Checklist%202011.docx 01 Dec 2011 10:00:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) is providing an update to the industry on developments around the REF project. For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular47Of2011.pdf 25 Oct 2011 15:37:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to notify stakeholders of the benefit options in open medical schemes for the year 2012.For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular46Of2011.pdf 21 Nov 2011 16:57:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes would like to solicit comments and input on the trustee remuneration discussion document. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular45Of2011.pdf 18 Nov 2011 15:57:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has published the final version(Version 4) of the revised managed care standards. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular44Of2011.pdf 15 Nov 2011 15:05:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 Jun 2011 today. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QuarterlyReports2011062011.pdf 15 Nov 2011 14:17:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), the regulator of the medical schemes industry, invites all members of the press to a press conference at its premises in Pretoria to discuss Monday’s High Court judgement which sees continued protection for members of medical schemes. Access the link above for details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease11Of2011.pdf 08 Nov 2011 09:50:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), the regulator of the medical schemes industry, invites all members of the press to a press conference at its premises in Pretoria to discuss Monday’s High Court judgement which sees continued protection for members of medical schemes. Access the link above for details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease10Of2011.pdf 07 Oct 2011 15:09:00 +0200 The North Gauteng High Court handed down a judgement this morning confirming that the minimum benefits prescribed in the Medical Schemes Act must be paid in full. To find out more, and to view the judgement, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease9Of2011.pdf 07 Oct 2011 14:29:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what is covered for respiratory illnesses in children with regard to PMBs. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript5Of2011_2012.pdf 31 Oct 2011 16:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) encourages trustees to attend its free trustee training sessions – or face the possibility of having to pay for them. Please access the link above for details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular43Of2011.pdf 24 Oct 2011 16:24:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2011 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 3 of 2011. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular42Of2011.pdf 19 Oct 2011 08:15:00 +0200 Regulator of the medical schemes industry, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), invites Medical Schemes, Administrators, Managed Care entities and health care professionals to a workshop on measuring Quality and Health outcomes. The workshop takes place in Johannesburg on the 04th Nov 2011. Get the details by clicking on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular41Of2011.pdf 13 Oct 2011 16:41:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has confirmed the merger between Discovery Health Medical Scheme and Edcon Medical Aid with effect from 1 Jan 2012. For more details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular40of2011.pdf 12 Oct 2011 15:46:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) would like to communicate to the industry that the Office is currently enhancing its guidelines on the preparation of business plans pursuant to applications for the registration of a new medical scheme, new/restructured benefit options, where a scheme is not meeting the statutory solvency levels in terms of Regulation 29, amalgamations, reinsurance and standard management accounts. You are invited to comment on these guidelines by 31 Oct 2011. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular39Of2011.pdf 01 Oct 2011 16:50:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) publishes a circular on Personal Medical Savings Accounts (PMSA) today. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular38Of20111.pdf 29 Sep 2011 08:22:00 +0200 The Regulator for Medical Schemes has decided to deregister GetMed Medical Scheme. To access the press release please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease8Of2011.pdf 27 Sep 2011 10:10:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) responds to media reports on investigations of corruption into the medicals schemes industry. To access the press release please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease7Of2011.pdf 23 Sep 2011 11:28:00 +0200 Guideline for the preparation of administration agreements in compliance with the regulatory requirements published today. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular37Of2011.pdf 20 Sep 2011 14:43:00 +0200 Guideline for the preparation of managed care agreements in compliance with the regulatory requirements published today. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular36Of2011.pdf 20 Sep 2011 14:43:00 +0200 Regulator of medical schemes invites comments on the draft framework document for measuring quality and health outcomes in medical schemes. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular35Of2011.pdf 16 Sep 2011 16:53:00 +0200 The office of the Registrar of medical schemes addresses the issue of rejection of claims by medical schemes and administrators from some categories of psychologists. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular34Of2011.pdf 16 Sep 2011 16:23:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 31 Mar 2011 today. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/QuarterlyReport20110331.pdf 14 Sep 2011 16:18:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes wishes to inform all stakeholders that the 2011 SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide has been published. To read more about it, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular33Of2011.pdf 13 Sep 2011 16:22:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) publishes draft managed care accreditation standards, Version 4 for comments. Please access the link above for the circular. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular32Of2011.pdf 13 Sep 2011 16:20:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) launched its latest Annual Report this morning. Access the link above to find out about the latest trends in the medical schemes industry. The report can also be downloaded from our website. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease6Of2011.pdf 09 Sep 2011 16:53:00 +0200 Regulator of the medical schemes industry in South Africa, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), hereby extends a cordial invitation to all members of the media fraternity to the official launch of its Annual Report 2010-2011 taking place tomorrow (Tuesday) in Pretoria. Please access the link above for more details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease5Of2011.pdf 05 Sep 2011 10:46:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites Principal Officers, Chairpersons of Boards and other Board members to a presentation and discussion of its Annual Report 2010-2011 and latest industry trends. To find out more and to book your seat/s access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Annual%20Reports/InviteToAR_RoadShows_2011.pdf 01 Sep 2011 10:46:00 +0200 Regulator of the medical schemes industry in South Africa, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), hereby extends a cordial invitation to all members of the media fraternity to the official launch of its Annual Report 2010-2011. Please access the link above for more details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease4Of2011.pdf 30 Aug 2011 10:20:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what PMBs a member is entitled to if they have suffered burns. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript4of2011_2012.pdf 17 Aug 2011 16:52:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2011 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 2 of 2011. For the full document, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular31of2011.pdf 16 Aug 2011 16:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites Principal Officers, Chairpersons of Boards and other Board members to a presentation and discussion of its Annual Report 2010-2011 and latest industry trends. The presentations will take place in Cape Town and Johannesburg in Sep. To find out more and to book your seat/s, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Annual%20Reports/InviteToAR_RoadShows_2011.pdf 10 Aug 2011 16:38:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has approved that the exposition document on the proposed merger between Discovery Health Medical Scheme and Edcon Medical Aid, lie open for public viewing from 1 Aug 2011 to 21 Aug 2011. For details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular30of2011.pdf 29 Jul 2011 16:21:00 +0200 The minutes and final decision on use of rFVIIa in intractable bleeding are available. Please access the link above to read the full article. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular28Of2011.pdf 26 Jul 2011 08:55:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes advises on the requirements and deadlines for schemes to submit their benefit and contribution changes for 2012. For more information, please access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular29Of2011.pdf 22 Jul 2011 17:30:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what is covered for strokes with regard to PMBs. To read the article, access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript3Of2011_2012.pdf 18 Jul 2011 16:52:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published in the Government Gazette on 8 Jul 2011 a correction notice on the levies on medicals schemes. For more information on this, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular27Of2011.pdf 12 Jul 2011 15:12:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is inviting industry and all interested parties to comment on the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2011 by 15 Jul 2011. For details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular26Of2011.pdf 04 Jul 2011 10:18:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has suspended the accreditation of managed care organisation Emerging Market Healthcare for a period of three years. For the full document, please click on the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular25%20of%202011%20-%20EMH%20suspended.pdf 01 Jul 2011 09:20:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and statutory return users the opportunity to provide suggestions for changes to/comments on the Annual Statutory Return. For the full document, please click on the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular24of2011.pdf 21 Jun 2011 15:51:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and preparers of statutory returns to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2010 Annual Financial Statements and Statutory Returns. For the full document, please click on the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular23of2011.pdf 17 Jun 2011 16:08:00 +0200 The 2011 Auditor Approval Questionnaire is available to users for completion on our website. Please access the link above for more details (Circular 22 of 2011). http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular22Of2011.pdf 13 Jun 2011 09:16:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers and statutory return users with information on the 2011 quarterly statutory return submissions. For the full document, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular21Of2011.pdf 07 Jun 2011 09:07:00 +0200 South Africa’s third-largest medical scheme, Bonitas Medical Fund, is under curatorship. Access the link above to read the full press statement from regulator Council for Medical Schemes (CMS). http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/CMSPressRelease3of2011.pdf 06 Jun 2011 12:07:00 +0200 Regulation 9 – limits on benefits: Medical schemes apply this provision to pro-rate benefits in instances where a member is admitted during the course of a financial year. To read more, please access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular20Of2011.pdf 30 May 2011 16:58:00 +0200 Former members of Protea Medical Scheme, which is currently under liquidation, are protected by the “open enrolment” principle in the Medical Schemes Act. To read more, please access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular19Of2011.pdf 25 May 2011 09:41:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes is calling upon all medical schemes to notify the CMS in writing of a date on which a medical scheme intends to hold an Annual general meeting(AGM) or a Special general meeting(SGM);and of a date on which a medical scheme intends to hold Trustee elections. To read more, please access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular18Of2011.pdf 25 May 2011 17:08:00 +0200 Stakeholders are invited to comment of the solid organ transplant benefit definition and proposed costing methodology. To read more, please access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular17Of2011.pdf 13 May 2011 16:42:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what is covered for head injuries with regard to PMBs. To read the article, access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript2Of2011_2012.pdf 05 May 2011 08:36:00 +0200 CMS publishes deadlines for the submission of REF risk factor data. To read the circular, access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular16Of2011.pdf 04 May 2011 10:31:00 +0200 What is the purpose of medical schemes? What makes the Medical Schemes Act unique? These are some of the questions the regulator of the medical schemes industry aims to answer in the latest issue of their official newsletter, CMS News, now available on our website. To page through the official publication of the Council for Medical Schemes, access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMS%20News/CMSNews1Of2010_2011.pdf 26 Apr 2011 08:35:00 +0200 You have until tomorrow (19 Apr 2011) to show cause to the court as to why the final order of liquidation for Protea Medical Aid Society should not be granted. To find out more, access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/CMSPressRelease2Of2011.pdf 18 Apr 2011 16:53:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published in the Government Gazette on 15 Apr 2011 a general notice on the imposition of levies on medicals schemes. For more information on this, please access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular15Of2011.pdf 15 Apr 2011 14:55:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is in the process of reviewing the SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide (Guide) which is to be published by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). To read the article, access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular14Of2011.pdf 05 Apr 2011 15:55:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what is covered for STIs with regard to PMBs. To read the article, access the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript1Of2011_2012.pdf 04 Apr 2011 15:51:00 +0200 Urgent confirmation requested to ensure compliance by Administrators and self-administered medical schemes with PMB requirements. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular13Of2011.pdf 04 Apr 2011 13:25:00 +0200 The purpose of this guideline is to provide more detail on the minimum set of information that needs to be submitted to the Office on the application for an amalgamation of schemes. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/Guideline%20for%20the%20preparation%20of%20a%20business%20plan%20pursuant%20to%20an%20application%20for%20amalgamation%20of%20schemes.pdf 29 Mar 2011 16:50:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has published a General Notice on proposed levies on medicals schemes in the Government Gazette on 11 Mar 2011. For more information on this, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular12Of2011.pdf 14 Mar 2011 08:33:00 +0200 In carefully selected clinical settings, the use of rFVIIa can be life saving. Inappropriate use of rFVIIa can be costly and even fatal. The aim of this communication is to propose a practical guideline for use of rFVIIa for the treatment of life threatening intractable bleeding in South Africa. To read the article, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular11Of2011.pdf 14 Mar 2011 08:31:00 +0200 Administrators of medical schemes are hereby reminded of the requirements of Regulation 19 to the Act which requires administrators to submit a report to the Registrar within 60 days from date of termination of an administration agreement with any of the schemes administered by it. To read the article, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular10Of2010.pdf 08 Mar 2011 10:00:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what is covered for pregnancy with regard to PMBs. To read the article, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript9Of2010_2011.pdf 04 Mar 2011 16:17:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) wishes to inform stakeholders that the Annual Statutory Return Help file has been published. The purpose of this guideline is to facilitate a better understanding of not only the workings of the Annual Statutory Return online system, but also how it should be completed. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/ARHelpFile2010.pdf 02 Mar 2011 11:37:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) wishes to inform all stakeholders that the 2010 Annual Statutory Return is available for completion. The Office has also published guidance on the submission requirements. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular9Of2010.pdf 02 Mar 2011 11:26:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) provides further information on Bonitas Medical Fund and Bonitas Marketing (Pty) Ltd. To see the full press release, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease1Of2011.pdf 03 Feb 2011 11:32:00 +0200 Registrar publishes 2011 dates for the aggregated ICD-10 compliance data submissions. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular6Of2011.pdf 01 Feb 2011 16:40:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we look at what is covered for diabetes with regard to PMBs. To read the article, click here. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript8Of2010_2011.pdf 01 Feb 2011 08:10:00 +0200 Registrar publishes Quarterly Report for the period ended 30 Sep 2010. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular5Of2011.pdf 27 Jan 2011 08:21:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we go back to basics of what medical schemes should cover in full. To read the article, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CMScript7Of2011.pdf 25 Jan 2011 15:44:00 +0200 The schedule Neonatology meeting has been postponed. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular4Of2011.pdf 25 Jan 2011 11:54:00 +0200 During the past few years, the Office of the Registrar (Office) has received an increasing number of queries on the classification of assets in terms of Regulation 30 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (Act) read in conjunction with Annexure B to the Regulations. The Office has issued Circular 3 of 2011 and various guidelines to provide further clarity and guidance on the said classification as at 31 Dec 2010. For the full document, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular3Of2011.pdf 24 Jan 2011 17:11:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2010 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 4 of 2010. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular1Of2011_QuarterlyStatutoryReturnsForPeriodEnding31Dec2010.pdf 10 Jan 2011 13:14:00 +0200 The CMS hereby wishes to respond to the article entitled: “Whistle Blowers Being Targeted” which was published by the Mail and Guardian Vol 26, No 49 on 23 Dec 2010. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease20Of2010.pdf 24 Dec 2010 13:14:00 +0200 Neither the current Principal Officer nor the current Board of Trustees is implicated in the alleged misconduct at the Community Medical Aid Scheme. COMMED is also financially healthy. Read the latest press release from the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease19Of2010.pdf 22 Dec 2010 09:11:00 +0200 The Registrar has published the list of approved benefit options for open and restricted schemes for 2011. For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular69Of2010.pdf 22 Dec 2010 09:07:00 +0200 The Registrar for Medical Schemes has confirmed the merger between Topmed Medical Scheme and Bepmeds from 1 Jan 2011. For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular68Of2010.pdf 17 Dec 2010 15:28:00 +0200 The Registrar for Medical Schemes would like to provide information and an evaluation of the cost increase assumptions used in the determination of Medical Scheme contribution increases for 2011. For further information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular67Of2010.pdf 17 Dec 2010 15:26:00 +0200 Medical schemes must continue to pay for a set of prescribed healthcare benefits – and they must pay for them in full. Read the reminder from the Council for Medical Schemes by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/Press18Of2010.pdf 15 Dec 2010 08:50:00 +0200 Medical schemes must continue to pay for a set of prescribed healthcare benefits – and they must pay for them in full. Read the reminder from the Council for Medical Schemes by accessing the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular66Of2010.pdf 15 Dec 2010 08:46:00 +0200 The deadline for comments on the health price determination discussion document is postponed to 15 Jan 2011. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular65Of2010.pdf 14 Dec 2010 11:55:00 +0200 In the latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we focus on rheumatoid arthritis. To read the article, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/CMScript/CmsScript7Of2010.pdf 09 Dec 2010 09:02:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has asked the High Court to place Sizwe Medical Fund under curatorship following an investigation which points to governance irregularities at the scheme. To read more, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease17Of2010.pdf 08 Dec 2010 15:58:00 +0200 Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) continues to investigate Community Medical Aid Scheme (COMMED) and others implicated in wrongdoings. For more information, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease16Of2010_20101126.pdf 26 Nov 2010 11:54:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has confirmed the merger between Moremed Medical Scheme and Clicks Group Medical Scheme from 1 Jan 2011. Please access the link above for details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular64Of2010_20101122.pdf 22 Nov 2010 16:25:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share the status of benefit options in open medical schemes for the year 2011. Please access the link above for details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular63of2010_2010116.pdf 16 Nov 2010 15:30:00 +0200 Protea Medical Aid Society was placed under curatorship on 29 Oct 2010. Please access the link above for more information http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease15Of2010_20101111.pdf 11 Nov 2010 07:43:00 +0200 The Registrar’s Office wish to bring to the attention of all stakeholders the latest guideline issued by the erstwhile Minister of Health, Ms Barbara Hogan, dated 03 Mar 2009. Please access the link above for more information http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular62Of2010_20101110.pdf 10 Nov 2010 14:37:00 +0200 Pro Sano Medical Scheme is in the hands of new trustees following a successful curatorship. For more information, go to the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease14Of2010_20101109.pdf 09 Nov 2010 12:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes congratulates Dr Gwen Ramakgopa on her appointment as Deputy Health Minister. For read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease13Of2010.pdf 11 Nov 2010 17:10:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has approved that the exposition document on the proposed merger between Topmed Medical Scheme and Bepmeds lie open for public viewing from 4 Nov 2010 to 24 Nov 2010. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular60Of2010_20101104.pdf 04 Nov 2010 11:56:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 Jun 2010 today. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Quarterly%20Reports/Q2_2010_ReportEnd20100630.pdf 04 Nov 2010 11:53:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) would like to communicate to the industry that the Office is currently enhancing its guidelines on the preparation of business plans pursuant to applications for the registration of a new medical scheme, new or restructured benefit options, amalgamations and where a scheme is not meeting the statutory solvency levels in terms of Regulation 29. You are invited to comment on these guidelines by 30 Nov 2010. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular61Of2010_20101104.pdf 04 Nov 2010 11:50:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) would like to communicate to the industry that the Office is currently enhancing its guidelines on the format of the standard management accounts as well as the preparation of the business plans pursuant to applications for reinsurance in terms of Section 20 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998. You are invited to comment on these guidelines by 17 Nov 2010. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular59Of2010_20101104.pdf 04 Nov 2010 11:49:00 +0200 The Circular seeks to give guidance for submissions related to the PMB definition project for Heart and Vasculature conditions. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular58Of2010_20101102.pdf 02 Nov 2010 10:41:00 +0200 To read the consultation document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular57Of201020101102.pdf 02 Nov 2010 10:41:00 +0200 The Circular seeks to clarify the status of the PMB code of conduct and suggests the way forward for the PMB task team. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular56Of2010_20101027.pdf 27 Oct 2010 17:20:00 +0200 The Circular seeks to clarify the status and the process followed in arriving at PMB benefit definitions in accordance with the PMB regulations. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular55Of2010_20101027.pdf 27 Oct 2010 17:19:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) on behalf of the ICD-10 National Task Team wish to inform all stakeholders of the erratum to the coding standards . For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/PMB%20Coded%20List/ErrataSAICD10CodingStandardsV4.pdf 27 Oct 2010 17:23:00 +0200 Following discussions held on 22 Oct 2010 regarding the broad framework, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is providing a structure to guide submissions for the prescribed minimum (PMB) benefit definition project. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular54Of2010_20101025.pdf 25 Oct 2010 14:26:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2010 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 3 of 2010. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular53Of2010_20101021.pdf 21 Oct 2010 15:51:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published meeting dates for the clinical advisory committees established to define benefits contained in the prescribed minimum benefits (PMB) package. For dates, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/PMB%20Definition%20Project/PMBDefinClinicalAdvisory.pdf 21 Oct 2010 10:02:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) regrets to announce that Gen-Health is being liquidated with effect from 12 Oct 2010. For details, access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Press%20Releases/PressRelease12Of2010_20101014.pdf 14 Oct 2010 17:16:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes has noted that some schemes are granting loans to members in a manner that is inconsistent with the Medical Schemes Act. Those schemes involved in this practice must stop this unlawful practice immediately. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular52Of2010_20101014.pdf 14 Oct 2010 17:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is in the process of reviewing the SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide (Guide) which is to be published by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). To read more about it, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/Circulars/Circular51Of2010_20101007.pdf 07 Oct 2010 17:45:00 +0200 Click on the link above, to read the terms of reference. http://www.medicalschemes.com/files/PMB%20Definition%20Project/PMBDefProject_TOR.pdf 07 Oct 2010 17:40:00 +0200 The Registrar for Medical Schemes has declined to confirm the exposition of the proposed merger between Sizwe Medical Fund and Gen-health Medical Scheme from 1 Oct 2010. For details, please click here / access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/CMS%20Circular%2050.pdf 01 Oct 2010 14:32:00 +0200 The Registrar for Medical Schemes has confirmed the merger between Thebemed Medical Scheme and Suremed Health from 1 Oct 2010. For details, please click here / access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/CMS%20Circular%2049.pdf 30 Sep 2010 14:45:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has approved that the exposition document on the proposed merger between Moremed Medical Scheme and Clicks Group Medical Scheme lie open for public viewing from 1 Oct 2010 to 21 Oct 2010.To read the circular click on the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular48of2010_20100930.pdf 30 Sep 2010 11:50:00 +0200 CMS extends the deadlines for the PMB definition project To read the circular click on the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular47of2010_20100929.pdf 29 Sep 2010 17:00:00 +0200 In our latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we focus on designated service providers. To read the article click on the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript%206%20of%202010%20DSP%20last%20edit.pdf 28 Sep 2010 11:11:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes provides a guidance note on medical scheme contribution increases for 2011. To read his advice, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular46Of2010_20100923.pdf 23 Sep 2010 13:29:00 +0200 The High Court today divested the Board of Bonitas of their powers as trustees following a counter-application by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) to an application by the scheme interdicting the CMS from instituting proceedings to remove the Board for not being fit and proper. To read more, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease11Of2010_20100917.pdf 17 Sep 2010 17:45:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 31 Mar 2010 today. For the full document, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Quarterly%20Reports/QuarterReport_20100331.pdf 16 Sep 2010 09:55:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes invites stakeholders to participate and comment on the proposed structure of the PMB package benefit definition project. To access the invitation, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular45Of2010_20100914.pdf 16 Sep 2010 09:52:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) Annual Report 2009-2010 has been made available on the CMS website. To access it, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/CMSAR2009_2010.pdf 09 Sep 2010 15:30:00 +0200 The Registrar for Medical Schemes has confirmed the merger between Medshield Medical Scheme and Oxygen Medical Scheme from 1 Oct 2010. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular44Of2010_20100903.pdf 09 Sep 2010 11:05:00 +0200 Principal Officers and trustees are cordially invited to the Annual Report road shows offered by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) in Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg in Sep. This is your chance to meet the newly appointed Registrar, Dr Monwabisi Gantsho, and engage us on our latest Annual Report. For details and to book your seat, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/ReminderInviteToARRoadShow_20100831.pdf 27 Aug 2010 16:22:00 +0200 This is a reminder that regulator of the medical schemes industry, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), is giving media professionals the chance to meet the newly appointed Registrar Dr Monwabisi Gantsho and engage us on the latest Annual Report at a press conference in Pretoria on 2 Sep 2010. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/ReminderInviteToARRoadShow_2010.pdf 27 Aug 2010 13:55:00 +0200 The report on 2009 REF submissions, which shows that there has been no improvement in data quality since 2007, has been published today. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular43of2010_20100831.pdf 27 Aug 2010 13:45:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has approved that the exposition document on the proposed merger between Sizwe Medical Fund and Gen-health Medical Scheme lie open for public viewing from 20 Aug 2010 to 9 Sep 2010. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/CMS%20Circular%2042.pdf 27 Aug 2010 15:57:00 +0200 The joint liquidators of Renaissance Health Medical Scheme (Renaissance) have instituted action in the Gauteng North High Court against the former Board of Trustees, Principal Officer, administrator and curator of the scheme for the recovery of R88 million. To read more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease9Of2010_20100820_1.pdf 20 Aug 2010 15:57:00 +0200 Principal Officers and trustees are cordially invited to the Annual Report road shows offered by the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) in Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg in Sep. This is your chance to meet the newly appointed Registrar, Dr Monwabisi Gantsho, and engage us on our latest Annual Report. For details and to book your seat, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/InviteToARRoadShow_2010.pdf 20 Aug 2010 13:06:00 +0200 Regulator of the medical schemes industry, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), is giving media professionals the chance to meet the newly appointed Registrar Dr Monwabisi Gantsho and engage us on the latest Annual Report at a press conference in Pretoria on 2 Sep 2010. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/PressRelease9Of2010_20100820.pdf 20 Aug 2010 12:55:00 +0200 The Registrar for Medical Schemes has confirmed the merger between Momentum Health Medical Scheme and Ingwe Health from 1 Sep 2010. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular41Of2010_20100818.pdf 08 Aug 2010 16:48:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2010 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 2 of 2010. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular40Of2010_20100818.pdf 08 Aug 2010 12:45:00 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has approved that the exposition document on the proposed merger between Thebemed Medical Scheme and Suremed Health lie open for public viewing from 4 Aug to 24 Aug 2010. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular39Of2010_20100805.pdf 05 Aug 2010 18:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to share its views on the new code of conduct with regards to prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs) and the ruling on the Reference Price List (RPL). To find out what we think, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press8Of2010_20100804.pdf 04 Aug 2010 11:10:00 +0200 The industry task team on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs), lead by the Council for Medical Schemes, has concluded the first phase of its work and has published a code of conduct in respect of PMBs. The code identifies improved processes that must be adhered to in order to improve compliance with PMB regulations, please click on the link above to read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular38Of2010_20100803.pdf 03 Aug 2010 14:03:31 +0200 The Registrar hereby informs schemes as to the requirement of the Act to update details for Medical Schemes. The circular is a follow up of circular 9 of 2009 and includes the additional requirement of advance notification of a change in administration and process regarding annual/quarterly statutory returns. For further information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular37of2010_20100723.pdf 23 Jul 2010 15:58:31 +0200 In our latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we focus on Epilepsy. To read about these essential benefits that are guaranteed to each medical scheme member, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript5Of2010_20100719.pdf 19 Jun 2010 17:11:31 +0200 The industry task team on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs) is continuing with its work. It will be done by 30 Jul 2010. For more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular36Of2010_20100719.pdf 19 Jun 2010 17:11:31 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes advises on the requirements and deadlines for schemes to submit their benefit and contribution changes for 2011. For more information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular35Of2010_20100625.pdf 25 Jun 2010 17:14:31 +0200 The National ICD-10 Task Team has published a document with information on the ICD-10 code updates that will be done to bring SA in line with the World Health Organisation. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular33Of2010_20100621.pdf 24 Jun 2010 18:46:33 +0200 The National ICD-10 Task Team has published a document detailing the purpose of the National ICD-10 Task Team. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular32Of2010_20100623.pdf 23 Jun 2010 18:39:33 +0200 The National ICD-10 Task Team has published a circular with regards to the use of ICD-10 Coding on non medical scheme documents. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular31Of2010_201006223.pdf 23 Jun 2010 18:39:33 +0200 The National ICD-10 Task Team has published a circular with regards to the ICD-10 codes, pre-authorisation and clinical validation requirements. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular30Of2010_20100610.pdf 23 Jun 2010 18:39:33 +0200 The National ICD-10 Task Team updated the use of ICD-10 coding for dental laboratory and technician claims. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular29Of2010_20100623.pdf 23 Jun 2010 18:39:33 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has approved that the exposition documents on the proposed merger between Medshield Medical Scheme and Oxygen Medical Scheme lie open for public viewing from 21 Jun to 11 Jul 2010. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular28Of2010_20100621.pdf 21 Jun 2010 16:50:33 +0200 This office has concluded the process of soliciting views on the draf standards published for comment. For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular27Of2010_20100617.pdf 17 Jun 2010 19:07:33 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes has approved that the exposition documents on the proposed merger between Momentum Health Medical Scheme and Ingwe Health Plan lie open for public viewing from 15 Jun to 5 Jul 2010. For details, please access the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular26Of2010_20100615.pdf 15 Jun 2010 16:41:25 +0200 In our latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we focus on Multiple sclerosis. To read about these essential benefits that are guaranteed to each medical scheme member, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript4Of2010_20100615.pdf 15 Jun 2010 09:53:25 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) wishes to confirm that the industry task team on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs) is going ahead with the development of a code of conduct on PMB compliance. Get more detail, by clicking on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease7of2010_20100608.pdf 08 Jun 2010 03:29:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and statutory return users the opportunity to provide suggestions for changes to/comments on the Annual Statutory Return. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular25Of2010_20100607.pdf 07 Jun 2010 05:08:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is in the process of reviewing the SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide (Guide) which is to be published by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). To read more about it, please click on the link above. To access the 2009 Guide, visit the SAICA website http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular24Of2010_20100607.pdf 07 Jun 2010 05:07:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and preparers of statutory returns to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2009 Annual Financial Statements and Statutory Returns. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular23Of2010_20100607.pdf 07 Jun 2010 05:05:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) has finalised the 2010 Quarterly Statutory Return online programme, which is now available on our website for completion of Quarter 1 of 2010. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular22Of2010_20100603.pdf 03 Jun 2010 14:13:00 +0200 Dr Monwabisi Gantsho is the new Registrar of Medical Schemes. He joined the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) today. Get to know him better by clicking on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease6Of2010_20100601.pdf 01 Jun 2010 16:33:00 +0200 Notification to all users of the auditor questionnaire that the questionnaire for the 2010 financial year is available for completion. To view the document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular21Of2010_20100529.pdf 29 May 2010 14:30:00 +0200 CMS legal position on appointment of Brokers, collection and payment of unlawful professional fees to Brokers and unlawful collection of first month contributions by Brokers. To view the document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular20of2010_20100526.pdf 26 May 2010 20:40:00 +0200 Regulator of the industry, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), has published the deadlines by which schemes are to submit their Risk Equalisation Fund (REF) data in 2010. To view the document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular19of2010_20100517.pdf 17 May 2010 08:25:00 +0200 Regulator of the medical schemes industry, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), is reminding all media professionals that they are invited to witness a historic workshop on the industry-wide non-compliance with the prescribed minimum benefit (PMB) provisions in the Medical Schemes Act. The workshop takes place in Johannesburg tomorrow. Get the details by clicking on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease5Of2010_20100510.pdf 10 May 2010 04:20:00 +0200 In our latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we focus on Haemophilia. To read the article, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript3of2010_20100506.pdf 06 May 2010 04:20:00 +0200 Regulator of the medical schemes industry, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), is inviting media professionals to witness a historic workshop on the industry-wide non-compliance with prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs) provisions. The workshop takes place in Johannesburg next week. Get the details and book your seat by clicking on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease4Of2010.pdf 04 May 2010 15:02:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers and statutory return users with information on the completion of the 2010 quarterly statutory return submissions. For the full document, click on the link above http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular18Of2010_20100503.pdf 03 May 2010 16:59:00 +0200 The regulator of medical schemes, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), is turning 10 this Sunday. We look back on our first decade. Read about it by clicking on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press%20release%203%20of%202010%20We%20are%2010%20.pdf 30 Apr 2010 12:34:00 +0200 Amendments to Fit and Proper requirements (FAIS) and related issues affecting accredited brokers. For the full document, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular17Apr2010_20100430.pdf 30 Apr 2010 12:34:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 31 Dec 2009 today. For the full document, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Quarterly%20Reports/Q4WebReports09_20100428.pdf 28 Apr 2010 16:19:00 +0200 In our latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we focus on Chronic renal disease and dialysis. To read the article, click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript2Of2010_20100421.pdf 21 Apr 2010 18:10:00 +0200 The latest issue of CMS News, the official newsletter of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), explores the relationships of beneficiaries with their medical schemes, administrators, managed care organisations, brokers, healthcare providers as well as patient advocacy groups and patient support groups. Hard copies of the publication are posted to medical schemes only but the electronic version is available on our website (www.medicalschemes.com). Access the electronic version by clicking on the link above. Kindly contact the editor with any comments you May have. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMS%20News/CMSNews3Of2009_2010_20100419.pdf 19 Apr 2010 05:17:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is proceeding with its court application to have Bonitas Medical Fund placed under curatorship. Find out why – and get the latest on this case – by clicking on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease2of2010_20100419.pdf 16 Apr 2010 11:22:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is inviting all schemes, administrators, and other interested parties who can contribute with data and expertise to help cost the package of prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs). For details, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular16Of2010_20100416.pdf 16 Apr 2010 11:16:00 +0200 The South African Revenue Services (SARS) is asking medical schemes and administrators of medical schemes to submit information in terms of the Income Tax Act. To find out how to comply with this requirement, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular15Of2010_20100809.pdf 09 Apr 2010 10:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has published a General Notice on proposed levies on medicals schemes in the Government Gazette on 12 Mar 2010. For more information on this, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular14Of2010_20100324.pdf 25 Mar 2010 16:36:00 +0200 CMS invites stakeholders to participate in a managed health care discussion forum. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular13Of2010_20100311.pdf 11 Mar 2010 09:16:00 +0200 The Minister of Health is embarking on a massive national HIV Counseling and Testing (HCT) campaign beginning on the 1st of Apr 2010. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular12Of2010_20100311.pdf 11 Mar 2010 09:14:00 +0200 In our latest issue of CMScript, our e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits or PMBs, we focus on infertility and premature labour. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript%20issue%201%20of%202010.pdf 05 Mar 2010 17:15:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) requests all Principal Officers to provide the marketing material of their schemes as required in Circular 11 of 2010. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%2011%20of%202010%20-%20Marketing%20material%20(Ed%20%202).pdf 05 Mar 2010 16:30:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) wishes to inform all stakeholders that the 2009 Annual Statutory Return is available for completion. The Office has also published guidance on the submission requirements. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%2010%20of%202010_Annual%20Statutory%20Returns%20for%20the%20financial%20year%20ended%2031%20Dec%202009.pdf 01 Mar 2010 16:45:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) wishes to inform stakeholders that Guideline 63 Annual Statutory Return Help file has been published. The purpose of this guideline is to facilitate a better understanding of not only the workings of the Annual Statutory Return online system, but also how it should be completed. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/2009%20Annual%20Return%20Help%20File%20final.pdf 01 Mar 2010 16:45:00 +0200 The acting Registrar of Medical Schemes Craig Burton-Durham has further extended the period in which to report on the matters raised in Circular 37 of 2009. To see the document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular9Of2010_%2020100225.pdf 25 Feb 2010 17:16:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has just published the deadlines for medical schemes to submit their International Classification of Diseases compliance data for the year 2010. To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Cirular8Of2010_20100222.pdf 22 Feb 2010 15:55:00 +0200 The acting Registrar of Medical Schemes Craig Burton-Durham has extended the period in which to report on the matters raised in Circular 37 of 2009. To see the document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular7of2010_20100218.pdf 18 Feb 2010 16:33:00 +0200 The acting Registrar of Medical Schemes Craig Burton-Durham addresses healthcare brokers on his court application to place Bonitas Medical Fund under curatorship. To see his advice, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular6of2010_20100216.pdf 16 Feb 2010 16:26:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 Sep 2009 today. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Quarterly%20Reports/Q3StatReports20090930.pdf 03 Feb 2010 04:54:00 +0200 The acting Registrar of Medical Schemes has today filed papers with the High Court asking for an urgent hearing to place Bonitas Medical Fund under curatorship. For more on this breaking story, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease1of2010_20100126.pdf 26 Jan 2010 17:12:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) wishes to inform stakeholders that Guideline 58 Foreign listed securities as at 31 Dec 2009 as per the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) has been replaced by Guideline 58 Inward listed securities as at 16 Nov 2009 as per the JSE. Guideline 57 has also been updated with the new classifications. These updated guidelines should be used in the classification of assets in terms of Regulation 30 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (Act) read in conjunction with Annexure B to the Regulations. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/publications.aspx?catid=5 26 Jan 2010 17:11:00 +0200 During the past few years, the Office of the Registrar (Office) has noted that auditors are using incorrect audit report templates for the Annual Statutory Return. The Office has issued Circular 5 of 2010 to provide further clarity and guidance on these audit reports. The audit report templates are contained in Guidelines 61 and 62. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular5Of2010_20100122.pdf 22 Jan 2010 05:04:00 +0200 The Ministry of Health has announced that the increased broker fees are payable from 1 Jan 2010 and not 1 Jan 2009, as stated previously. To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular3of2010_20100108.pdf 08 Jan 2010 12:39:00 +0200 During the past few years, the Office of the Registrar (Office) has received an increasing number of queries on the classification of assets in terms of Regulation 30 of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (Act) read in conjunction with Annexure B to the Regulations. The Office has issued Circular 2 of 2010 and Guidelines 53 to 60 to provide further clarity and guidance on the said classification. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular2of2010_20090107.pdf 07 Jan 2010 17:11:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide more details to all Principal Officers and statutory return users regarding the quarterly submission for 2009. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular01of2010_20100106.pdf 06 Jan 2010 17:19:00 +0200 In Issue 11 0f 2009 of its electronic advisory service on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs), the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) takes a closer look at HIV/Aids in the context of prescribed minimum benefits. To see the article, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_Dec2009_20100126.pdf 24 Dec 2009 12:38:00 +0200 The Minister of Health has published a Bipolar Mood Disorder therapeutic algorithm. For more details, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease10of2009_20091223.pdf 23 Dec 2009 15:23:00 +0200 The Minister of Health has published a therapeutic algorithm for the management of bipolar mood disorder in the government gazette of 21 Dec 2009. For more details, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular41of2009_20091223.pdf 23 Dec 2009 14:33:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to inform all stakeholders that the approved benefit options for open and restricted medical schemes for 2010 have been published on its website. To see the list, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular39of2009_20091218.pdf 18 Dec 2009 16:02:00 +0200 The Minister of Health has approved an increase in the fees payable to healthcare brokers with effect from 1 Jan 2009. For more, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular38Of2009_20091215.pdf 15 Dec 2009 12:37:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is giving schemes and administrators 60 days to comply with the provisions pertaining to prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs). To read the full directive, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular37Of2009_20091215.pdf 15 Dec 2009 12:31:00 +0200 The latest issue of the official newsletter of the Council for Medical Schemes analyses the reasons why South Africans join medical schemes – and why they do not. The publication is posted to selected stakeholders only but you can download the PDF version by clicking on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMS%20News/CMSNews_2_0910_20091211.pdf 11 Dec 2009 17:30:00 +0200 In its latest e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits, the Council for Medical Schemes takes a closer look at violence and abuse. For more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_20090412.pdf 04 Dec 2009 10:55:00 +0200 The Minister of Health has appointed a new Acting Registrar of Medical Schemes. For more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease9of2009_20091201.pdf 01 Dec 2009 17:18:00 +0200 The office of the registrar would like to inform all stakeholders of the publishing of Circular 38 of 2009 regarding the approved preliminary list of open medical scheme options for 2010. Please click on the link above for full circular or refer to the circular section of the website. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular36Of2009_BenefitOptionApproval_20091119.pdf 19 Nov 2009 16:38:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes wishes to inform all stakeholders that the 2009 SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide has been published. To read more about it, please click on the link above. To access the 2009 Guide, visit the SAICA website. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular34of2009_20091104.pdf 04 Nov 2009 18:09:00 +0200 In the Oct issue of its electronic advisory service on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs), the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) takes a closer look at eye care in the context of prescribed minimum benefits. For more details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScriptOct09_20091030.pdf 30 Oct 2009 17:03:00 +0200 The Acting Registrar and Chief Executive of the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) Mr Patrick Matshidze will be leaving the CMS in Nov. For more details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease8of2009_20091019.pdf 19 Oct 2009 14:46:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites all stakeholders to comment on the billing structure being proposed by the Board of Healthcare Funders of Southern Africa (BHF) in administering the Practice Code Numbering System (PCNS). For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular33of2009_20091016.pdf 16 Oct 2009 11:45:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to inform all Principal Officers and statutory return users of the provisional submission of statutory data for 2009. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular32of2009_20091016.pdf 16 Oct 2009 08:30:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar (Office) would like to communicate to Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees, and other relevant stakeholders that the Office has issued its guideline on the content of standard management accounts. For the full documents, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/GDL_on_Standard_management_accounts_20090930.pdf 30 Sep 2009 15:52:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all statutory return users with information on the 2009 quarterly statutory return training sessions to be held in the second week of Oct. To see the circular, please click on the link above. https://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/CMS%20Circular%2030%20of%202009%20quarterly%20statutory%20returns%20training.pdf 28 Sep 2009 18:00:00 +0200 The office of the Registrar would like to invite Principal Officers, BOT’s, Managed Care organisations, Administrators of medical schemes and Medical Advisors to comment and suggest changes to the revised accreditation standards for managed care delivery. To see the circular, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular29Of2009_20090918.pdf 18 Sep 2009 13:00:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to communicate to Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees, and other relevant stakeholders that the Office has issued its guidelines on the submission of reinsurance contracts, as well as the following business plans: Amalgamations; New/restructured benefit options; New schemes; and Regulation 29(4). For the full documents, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/publications.aspx?catid=5 16 Sep 2009 13:48:53 +0200 For the downloadable version of the Annual Report, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/CMS_AnnualReport2008_2009.zip 03 Sep 2009 12:21:30 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) launched its latest Annual Report during a media conference earlier today. To read more about it, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease7Of2009.pdf 02 Sep 2009 13:44:40 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has just released its latest Annual Report, for the period 2008-09. To download the low-res PDF version of the Report, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/CMS_A-R_2008-09_20090902.pdf 02 Sep 2009 13:35:40 +0200 Resolution Health (Pty) Ltd and Resolution Administrators (Pty) Ltd have today been given three months within which to transfer their functions to other service providers or to Resolution Health Medical Scheme itself. To see the judgment of the High Court, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease6of2009_20090901.pdf 01 Sep 2009 15:08:20 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is inviting all interested members of the South African media fraternity to the official launch of our Annual Report 2008-09, scheduled for tomorrow. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/InviteAR_Launch2009_reminder_20090901.pdf 01 Sep 2009 10:58:20 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to clarify the meaning of the obligation of medical schemes to “pay in full” for medical costs of their members, as prescribed in the Medical Schemes Act. To see our explanation, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular24Of2009_20090828.pdf 28 Aug 2009 16:27:40 +0200 Aug is Women’s Month so in the latest issue of its electronic advisory service on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs), the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) talks about breast and cervical cancers. To see the article, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScriptAug09_20090828.pdf 28 Aug 2009 15:57:40 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to advise that the deadlines to book your seat(s) for its Annual Report road shows – which are free of charge – have been extended. For more information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/InviteToRoadShows_2009_Rem_20090828.pdf 28 Aug 2009 14:47:40 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees, and other relevant stakeholders with information on the distribution of annual financial statements to members. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular23Of2009_20090827.pdf 27 Aug 2009 17:14:40 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites all Principal Officers and trustees to its Annual Report road shows which are being revived this year – and which are free of charge. Our Acting Registrar and Chief Executive Patrick Matshidze will be visiting Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg in Sep. For more information and details on how to book your seat, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/Invite_road_shows_20090820.pdf 20 Aug 2009 15:38:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites all Principal Officers and trustees to its Annual Report road shows which are being revived this year – and which are free of charge. Our Acting Registrar and Chief Executive Patrick Matshidze will be visiting Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg in Sep. For more information and details on how to book your seat, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/Invite_road_shows_20090820.pdf 20 Aug 2009 15:38:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is inviting all interested members of the South African media fraternity to the official launch of our Annual Report 2008-09. For details, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/Invito_A-R_official_launch_20090820.pdf 20 Aug 2009 15:37:00 +0200 In the latest issue of this electronic advisory service, the Council for Medical Schemes takes a look at mental health healthcare provision under PMBs. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_20090811.pdf 11 Aug 2009 11:26:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to advise stakeholders that all calls to 012 431 0500 get directed to our Reception Desk. Calls to 0861 123 267 go directly to our Call Centre. http://www.medicalschemes.com/ 08 Aug 2009 10:05:00 +0200 The PMB review committee has today published the terms of reference of the clinical advisory committees that has been established to advise the PMB review committee on proposed changes to certain PMB algorithms and DTPs. These documents are available on the CMS website under Publications, PMB Review, Clinical Advisory committees. To view the terms of reference, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/PMB%20Review/Terms_of_Reference_ClinicalAdvisoryComm20090808.pdf 08 Aug 2009 09:27:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers and statutory return users with information on the 2009 quarterly statutory return submissions. For the full document, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular22of2009_20090807.pdf 07 Aug 2009 16:15:00 +0200 The report on REF submissions during 2008 has been published today. Schemes that have been invited to discuss their REF returns with the CMS are urged to familiarise themselves with the content of the report. View the full report by clicking on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Risk%20Equalisation%20Fund/REFsubmissions2008Completereport.pdf 29 Jul 2009 18:13:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to communicate to Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees, auditors, medical scheme administrators and other interested parties, findings regarding the auditing of medical schemes during the evaluation of administrators and proposed action to be taken to improve internal and financial controls and reporting of results. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular21of2009_20090724.pdf 24 Jul 2009 16:01:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to communicate to Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees, and other relevant stakeholders that the Office is currently enhancing its guidelines on the format of standard management accounts and business plans. You are invited to comment on these guidelines by 21 Aug 2009. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular20Of2008_20090723.pdf 23 Jul 2009 17:44:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to advise all relevant stakeholders of the submission process of their contribution and benefit changes for 2010. Please click on the link above for the Circular with all the details. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular19_Of_2009_20090723.pdf 23 Jul 2009 14:44:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to communicate to Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees, auditors, and statutory return users the new prescribed format of the statement of comprehensive income. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular18Of2009_20090718.pdf 18 Jul 2009 16:05:00 +0200 Given the media hype around the investigation into Bonitas Medical Fund and its administrator Medscheme Holdings (Pty) Ltd, the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to assure the medical schemes industry that the scheme remains very stable and financially sound. To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRealease5_of_2009_20090717.pdf 17 Jul 2009 09:10:00 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to provide all Principal Officers and statutory return users with information on the completion of the 2009 quarterly statutory return submissions. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular17Of2009_20090715.pdf 15 Jun 2009 18:42:00 +0200 In the latest issue of its electronic newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs), the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) takes a closer look at diagnosing PMBs. To see the publication, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_20090630.pdf 30 Jun 2009 17:17:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has today made available the electronic version of the Jun 2009 edition of its quarterly paper-based external newsletter CMS News. This time, we explore the concept of “risk selection” in the medical schemes industry. Hard copies of the publication are posted to selected stakeholders only. To download the low-res PDF, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMS%20News/CMS_News_20090629.pdf 29 Jun 2009 17:40:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) invites all stakeholders to participate in clinical advisory committees to recommend final revisions to the diagnosis and treatment pairs (DTPs) and Chronic Disease List (CDL) algorithms in the current package of prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs). Applications and submissions of final proposals must reach us by 21 Jul 2009. To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular15Of2009_20090624.pdf 24 Jun 2009 17:45:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all users of the auditor questionnaire that the questionnaire for the 2009 financial year is available on our website (www.medicalschemes.com). The deadline for submitting auditor questionnaires is 31 Jul 2009. For more details, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/circular14Of200906_20090615.pdf 15 Jun 2009 19:51:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has issued a call for nominations of a body that will administer the practice code numbering system in the medical schemes industry. To find out more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular13_of_20090610.pdf 12 Jun 2009 17:54:00 +0200 We note with concern that healthcare providers seem to misunderstand modifier 0019. This Circular aims to clarify the use of this modifier. To read the Circular, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular12_of_%2020090609.pdf 09 Jun 2009 15:25:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to alert all Principal Officers, Boards of Trustees and preparers of statutory returns to its general concerns noted during the analysis of the 2008 Annual Financial Statements and Statutory Returns. For the full document, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_11_of%202008_20090604.pdf 04 Jun 2009 16:42:00 +0200 A joint provisional liquidator of Renaissance Health Medical Scheme has issued the attached letter to service providers who have rendered services to the former members of the scheme. To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular10_2009.pdf 25 May 2009 14:40:50 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is inviting expressions of interest from single suppliers / bidders (who May sub-contract) to participate in the bidding process for developing a Corporate Identity manual and a new website for the CMS. Please express your interest by 13:00 on Tuesday, 09 Jun 2009. To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Tenders/NewWebsite_ExpressionOfInterest.pdf 21 May 2009 17:10:15 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), in its effort to provide appropriate and excellent service and oversight to medical schemes and their beneficiaries, requires all schemes to provide relevant information and contact detail updates as and when they happen. To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular9_of_2009.pdf 05 May 2009 11:19:15 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is in the process of reviewing the SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide (Guide) which is to be published by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). To read more about it, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_8_of_2009.pdf 30 Apr 2009 17:20:15 +0200 In the Apr 2009 issue of its monthly e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs), the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) takes a look at the coverage for malaria under PMBs. To read the article, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_20090428.pdf 28 Apr 2009 20:36:15 +0200 The Department of Health and the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) are reviewing the prescribed minimum benefit (PMB) regulations, with input from stakeholders. The third draft of the consultation document was recently published on the CMS website. Stakeholders are again invited to comment on this document, this time before 11 May 2009. For more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/20090414_Circular_7_2009.pdf 30 Mar 2009 16:11:15 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has today published scheme-specific reports and key findings from the analysis of the Risk Equalisation Fund (REF) submissions for quarters 1 and 2 of 2008. Schemes and other stakeholders are encouraged to review their comments and engage in discussion with the CMS. For more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%206%20of%2020090330.pdf 30 Mar 2009 16:11:15 +0200 The Department of Health and the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) are reviewing the prescribed minimum benefit (PMB) regulations, with input from stakeholders. The third draft of the consultation document was published on the CMS website today. Stakeholders are again invited to comment on this document, this time before 20 Apr 2009, for consideration by the PMB review steering committee. To find out more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/PMB%20Review/3rd_Draft_PMB_20090325.pdf 25 Mar 2009 16:31:44 +0200 The Finance Task Team of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Health (MACH) is inviting all interested stakeholders to its first consultative meeting to be held in Pretoria on 3 Apr 2009. For details, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/DOH_INVITATION_TO_HEALTH_FINANCING_%20MEETING.pdf 23 Mar 2009 19:54:26 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has today published a special edition of its quarterly external newsletter CMS News. Hard copies of the publication are posted to trustees and principal officers of medical schemes. To download the PDF version, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMS%20News/CMS_News_200903.pdf 19 Mar 2009 09:14:56 +0200 Mar is Consumer Month and the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) is doing its bit to raise consumer awareness of their rights. To find out more about our initiative, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press_release_4_of_2009.pdf 13 Mar 2009 12:00:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has today published a general notice on the proposed levies on medical schemes. This notice will also be published in the Government Gazette on 13 Mar 2009. To see the notice – and the budget of the CMS for the financial year 2009-10 – please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/GENERAL_NOTICE_LEVIES_ON_MEDICAL_SCHEMES_SECTION%203.pdf 13 Mar 2009 10:42:00 +0200 In the Mar 2009 issue of its monthly e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs), the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) takes a look at the coverage for tuberculosis under PMBs. To read the article, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_09032009.pdf 09 Mar 2009 16:25:00 +0200 The Minister of Health, after consultation with the Council, has appointed Mr Patrick Matshidze as Acting Registrar of Medical Schemes with effect from 27 Feb 2009. For further details, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press_release_3_of_2009%20.pdf 02 Mar 2009 15:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to inform all principal officers, Board of Trustees and statutory return users that the 2008 annual statutory return program is now available on our website.(https://www.medicalschemes.com/Returns/) Kindly refer to Circular 3 of 2009. To access the circular, please click on the above link. https://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular3_of_2009_AR_for_31_Dec_2008.pdf 27 Feb 2009 16:15:45 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) would like to inform all principal officers, Boards of Trustees, administrators and auditors that the 2008 guidelines addressing investment categorisation, in terms of Annexure B read in conjunction with Regulation 30 of the Medical Schemes Act, are now available on our website. To access them, please, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/publications.aspx?catid=5 27 Feb 2009 15:34:45 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 Sep 2008 today. To see report, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Quarterly%20Reports/Quarter3_2008_period30Sep2008.pdf 20 Feb 2009 13:02:45 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes Patrick T. Masobe has resigned from the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS). To read more, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease%202_of_2009.pdf 19 Feb 2009 15:54:45 +0200 In the Feb 2009 issue of its monthly e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs), the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) answers your questions about cancer qualifying for PMBs. To read the article, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_10Feb09.pdf 10 Feb 2009 15:54:45 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes invites all newly appointed trustees to its free Introduction to Trusteeship Training Sessions which will be held in Johannesburg and Cape Town in Feb and Mar 2009. For more information, please click on the above link. https://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Board%20of%20Trustee%20Material/Introduction%20BOT%20Training%202009%20.pdf 23 Jan 2009 13:00:45 +0200 The Johannesburg High Court has granted an order placing trade union Solidarity’s restricted scheme Solvita under liquidation. For more information, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press_release_1_2009.pdf 22 Jan 2009 17:40:45 +0200 In the Jan issue of its monthly e-newsletter on prescribed minimum benefits, the Council for Medical Schemes takes a closer look at chronic conditions and medication. To read the article, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript%20Jan%2009%20-%20unlock%20your%20chronic%20benefits.pdf 20 Jan 2009 09:47:09 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is inviting all interested parties to its workshops on statutory returns and administrator accreditation, which will be held free of charge in Cape Town and Johannesburg in Mar 2009. For more details, including the agenda and registration form, please click on the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%202%20of%202009.pdf 13 Jan 2009 08:33:43 +0200 The Office would like to inform all principal officers and statutory return users that the online 2008 quarterly statutory return for Quarter 4 is available on our website. To access the circular on the submission deadlines, click the above link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_12of2008.pdf.pdf 09 Jan 2009 16:08:16 +0200 The Department of Health has published the National Health Reference Price List for 2009. To find out how to obtain this list, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%201%20of%202009.pdf 09 Jan 2009 09:32:11 +0200 In its latest e-publication on prescribed minimum benefits, the Council for Medical Schemes gives advice on how to apply for membership of a medical scheme. For more information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_Dec_2008.pdf 06 Jan 2009 15:42:45 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes published its quarterly reports for the period ended 30 Jun 2008 today. To see this list, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Quarterly%20Reports/Q22008WebsitereportFinal.pdf 19 Dec 2008 15:29:11 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has today published an updated list of benefit options for all open and restricted schemes that it has approved for the 2009 financial year. To see this list, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%2039%20of%202008.pdf 18 Dec 2008 15:29:11 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes invites all medical schemes who hold British American Tobacco (BTI) shares in their portfolio as a result of the unbundling of The Rembrandt Group (Richemont SA and Remgro Ltd.) to apply for exemption in terms of Section 8(h) of the Medical schemes Act 131 of 1998. For more information, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%2038%20of%202008.pdf 18 Dec 2008 15:18:34 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has enhanced the ICD-10 compliance data specification for 2009 submissions. All medical schemes are required to adhere to this specification and the deadlines. For more information, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%2037%20of%202008.pdf 18 Dec 2008 10:22:36 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) today published the Dec 2008 issue of its external newsletter CMS News. The publication is posted to trustees and principal officers of medical schemes only. To see the electronic version, please select the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMS%20News/CMS_News_20081215.pdf 15 Dec 2008 12:30:00 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is currently enhancing its guidelines for the preparation of business plans pursuant to applications for the registration of a new medical scheme, amalgamations and the registration of new/restructured benefit options. To this effect, we have published Circulars 34 to 36 today. You are invited to comment on these guidelines by 19 Jan 2009. For more information, click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/publications.aspx?catid=1 10 Dec 2008 17:46:58 +0200 In the latest issue of its electronic advisory service on prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs), the Council for Medical Schemes talks about HIV as a PMB. To read the article, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_Nov08.pdf 02 Dec 2008 10:08:46 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has today published the list of benefit options in open schemes that it has approved for the 2009 financial year. To see this list, please click on the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.co.za/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Benefits_options_2009.pdf 18 Nov 2008 14:48:24 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is enhancing its guideline on reinsurance contracts and invites all stakeholders to comment on it by 11 Dec 2008. For more information, please click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_31_of_2008.pdf 13 Nov 2008 12:26:51 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes is enhancing the guideline for the preparation of business plans for medical schemes that are not meeting the minimum statutory requirements as per Regulation 29(4). All schemes are invited to comment on this guideline by 11 Dec 2008. For more details, please click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_32_of_2008_reg29%20.pdf 13 Nov 2008 12:25:03 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has extended the statutory return submission deadline for the quarter 3 of 2008 to 19 Nov 2008. For more information, please click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%2030%20of%202008%20(Ed%201).pdf 12 Nov 2008 10:55:27 +0200 The SAICA Medical Schemes Accounting Guide for the 2008 financial year has been revised by the Medical Schemes Project Group of the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) in consultation with the Council for Medical Schemes. To read more about it, please click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_29_of_2008.pdf 12 Nov 2008 10:53:45 +0200 In the latest issue of this electronic advisory service, the Council for Medical Schemes talks about designated service providers. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_20081112.pdf 12 Nov 2008 10:47:25 +0200 The Asset Forfeiture Unit, a division of the National Prosecuting Authority, today seized the assets of three former trustees of Gen-Health Medical Scheme to the value of approximately R47 million. This comes as a result of a criminal case that ensued after the medical scheme was placed under curatorship in Nov 2005. For more details, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press%20release%2014%20of%202008.pdf 24 Oct 2008 17:20:01 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes today released discussion documents on the proposed corporate governance guidelines for schemes and the fit and proper standards for trustees and principal officers, having published a discussion document on the broker regulatory framework last month. For more on how to have your say on these three documents, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%2028%20of%202008.pdf 24 Oct 2008 14:33:58 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has withdrawn the accreditation of Mr Ettienne de Villiers and Afrisure cc with effect from 2 Oct 2008. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press_release_13_2008.pdf 24 Oct 2008 08:39:21 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes published its quarterly reports for the period ended 31 Mar 2008 today. To see these reports, please click the link above. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Quarterly%20Reports/Q1_2008WebsiteReportsFinal.pdf 23 Oct 2008 16:06:09 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes successfully approached the High Court on Friday to lift the curatorship of Renaissance Health Medical Scheme. For more details, please click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Pressrelease_12_of_%202008.pdf 22 Oct 2008 11:27:52 +0200 The minutes of the RETAP meeting dated 26 Sep 2008 have been published. To access the minutes, click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/publications.aspx?catid=31 21 Oct 2008 13:20:53 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published version 4 of the guidelines for the identification of beneficiaries with Risk Equalisation Fund (REF) risk factors in accordance with the REF entry and verification criteria, applicable for 2009. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Risk%20Equalisation%20Fund/V4_of_Entry_and_Verification_Guidelines.pdf 08 Oct 2008 11:12:09 +0200 The outcomes of the latest judgements and appeals have been published on the CMS Website. To access the latest judgements and appeals, simply click on the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/publications.aspx?catid=17 07 Oct 2008 14:30:31 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has suspended the accreditation of Mr AF Fivaz and Independent Distribution Network (Pty) Ltd by default following a suspension by the Financial Services Board for a period of three months with effect from 1 Sep 2008. For more, please click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease_11_of_2008.pdf 02 Oct 2008 15:34:19 +0200 With the advent of the new legislation, all dental technicians irrespective of whether or not they choose to submit claims directly to healthcare funders are now required to include ICD-10 codes on their accounts, which must conform to the line item requirement (the mandatory submission of ICD-10 codes at a line level). http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_26_2008.pdf 02 Oct 2008 11:28:59 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes invites all stakeholders and other interested parties to comment on the review of the minimal datasets project. You have until Friday, 24 Oct 2008, to do so. For more information, please click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_27_of_2008.pdf 02 Oct 2008 11:19:21 +0200 The latest version of CMScript has been published. CMScript provides insight into prescribed minimum benefits. This edition deals with "Minimum benefits give maximum cover (Part 2)" To access and download CMSscript, please click on the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/CMScript_Sep_08.pdf 29 Sep 2008 12:37:21 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes published the Sep issue of CMS News, its external newsletter, today. Due to the limited print-run, hard copies of this special edition will be posted to medical schemes only. To access the PDF version, please click on the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMS%20News/CMS_News_Sep2008.pdf 29 Sep 2008 12:36:08 +0200 The Registrar published a discussion document on proposals for broker remuneration for comment, with an initial deadline of 24 Oct 2008. Following representations made by stakeholders, this deadline has now been extended until 6 Feb 2009. This document is available on our website, www.medicalschemes.com, under publications -> brokers. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Brokers/Consultation_document_Sep_2008_revised_deadline.pdf 29 Sep 2008 12:35:13 +0200 Renaissance Health Medical Scheme and Humanity Medical Scheme will be liquidated due to poor financial performance. For more, click on the link provided. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press%20release%2010%20of%202008.pdf 19 Sep 2008 15:11:34 +0200 The regulatory framework for remuneration of health brokers is under the spotlight. The Office of the Registrar of Medical Schemes has published a discussion document with proposals to improve this framework. It has big implications for how medical schemes market themselves, how brokers operate and earn an income, and the quality of advice that consumers receive. If you’re a broker, a medical scheme or a consumer (or anyone else for that matter), we would value your input on these proposals. Comments should be emailed to broker_comments@medicalschemes.com by 24 Oct 2008. To read the discussion document, please click on the hyperlink provided. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Brokers/Broker_consultation_document_Sep2008.pdf 19 Sep 2008 12:05:30 +0200 The Department of Health, with assistance from the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS), is reviewing the regulations pertaining to prescribed minimum benefits (PMBs) in terms of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998. The PMB Review steering committee has taken into consideration comments from stakeholders on the first consultation document published on 27 Mar 2008. The steering committee has incorporated its responses to these comments into a second draft of the consultation document, which has been published on the CMS website today . Please submit your comments on this document to Baanetse Selebi (B.Selebi@medicalschemes.com) before Wednesday, 15 Oct 2008, for consideration by the PMB Review steering committee. The committee will consider these comments to finalise the context, PMB structure and principles operative in the review when it will convene to flesh out the details of PMB definitions. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/PMB%20Review/PBM%20Review%20consultation%20document%20-%20Second%20draft.pdf 12 Sep 2008 08:53:45 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has implemented RSS feeds as a method of sharing important announcements, Circulars and Press Releases with its stakeholders. This Circular provides more information on RSS feeds, links to our RSS feeds, and instructions on how to subscribe to our feeds. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Guidelines%20and%20Manuals/COUNCIL%20RSS%20Feeds.pdf 08 Sep 2008 10:00:36 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has published its latest 2007/8 Annual Report. Please click on the link to download. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Annual%20Reports/Annual_Report_2006-7_1.zip 02 Sep 2008 14:26:27 +0200 We are reviewing Version 3.2 of the guidelines of the Risk Equilisation Fund (REF) Entry and Verification Criteria in preparation of Verion 4 of the Criteria which will come into effect in Jan 2009. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_24%20Invitation_to_comment_on%20E&V_Criteria.pdf 02 Sep 2008 10:59:12 +0200 Since implementation of the MIT in Sep 2007, several clinically important errors have emerged. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/ERRATA%20ON%20THE%20ICD-10%20MIT.pdf 02 Sep 2008 10:55:31 +0200 The Office of the Registrar would like to inform all users that the original submission deadline for the 2008 auditor approval questionnaire of 22 Aug 2008 has been extended. The new submission deadline is 30 Sep 2008. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/AA%20circular%20-%2013%20Aug%202008_2.pdf 02 Sep 2008 10:53:41 +0200 The CMS published the report on the 2007 REF submissions on the CMS website today. A presentation on the 2007 submissions is also available. The purpose is to provide feedback to schemes on the 2007 submissions and to provide information that would assist schemes to interpret the scheme specific comments on that are available at the statutory returns portal on the CMS website. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/08_08_08_Circular_21_of_2008_REF_shadow_report_2007_submis.pdf 02 Sep 2008 10:51:35 +0200 The Office would like to inform all principal officers and statutory return users that the 2008 quarterly statutory return for (Quarter 2) online program is available on our website. To access the circular on the submission deadlines, click on the Link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%2012%20of%202008%20Revised.pdf 18 Jul 2008 16:32:26 +0200 The Council for Medical schemes is still in the process of finalizing the development of a contributions and benefits template as indicated in circular 33 of 2007. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the process has been delayed and will be communicated to the stakeholders in due course. However scheme are encouraged to follow the submission process as outlined in attached Circular. Please click on the link to download and read more. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular%2019%20of%202008%20Revised%20Final.pdf 15 Jul 2008 13:37:49 +0200 The curator of Renaissance Medical Scheme makes changes to contributions and benefits. To read more, click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Letter%20from%20curator.pdf 03 Jul 2008 12:02:17 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes, Mr Patrick Masobe, issued a letter to the Board of Trustees of Medshield today instructing them to immediately terminate their administration contract with Old Mutual Healthcare in terms of Section 61(5) of the Medical Schemes Act 131 of 1998 (MSA). To read more, click the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/pressRelease9.pdf 01 Jul 2008 10:18:43 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes publishes its external newsletter for Jun 2008. To read more, click the hyperlink. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMS%20News/CMS%20News.zip 01 Jul 2008 09:52:06 +0200 The CMS Script Newsletter for Jun 2008 has been published. This newsletter outlines: (a) The ins and outs of ICD10 codes, (b) PMB chronic conditions: a quick reference guide, and (c) The secrets of ICD10 Coding. To download the CMS Script Newsletter, simply click on the link. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMScript/cmsScript4.pdf.pdf 30 Jun 2008 10:34:34 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has removed three trustees of Medshield Medical Scheme from office with effect from 13 Jun 2008. To read more, click the hyperlink. https://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press_release_8_2008.pdf 27 Jun 2008 13:40:09 +0200 Dear Online Quarterly Statutory Returns Users. The Office would like to inform all principal officers and statutory return users that the 2008 Quater 1 online statutory return program is available on our website www.medicalschemes.com. Circular No 12/2008 outlines the submission process and requirements. Please click on the link to access. https://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_12of2008.pdf.pdf 18 Jun 2008 15:07:52 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes (CMS) has published its Research Brief 2 of 2008: Trends in Medical Schemes Contributions, Membership and Benefits 2002-2006 today... http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Research%20Briefs/Research_Brief_2_of_2008.pdf 18 Jun 2008 10:32:34 +0200 The curator of Renaissance Health Medical Schemes made the following announcement yesterday. To read the announcement please click on the Link. https://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/RenaissanceReport.pdf 18 Jun 2008 10:26:05 +0200 The Johannesburg High Court today placed Renaissance Medical Scheme under curatorship, following application by the Registrar of Medical Schemes, Mr Patrick Masobe, and the Council for Medical Schemes (CMS)... For more information click on the Link. https://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/PressRelease6of2008_Renaissance.pdf 20 May 2008 15:43:58 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes and the Council for Medical Schemes have made application to the Johannesburg High Court to place Renaissance Medical Scheme under curatorship. For more information: Click the Heading to read the full article. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/publications.aspx?catid=2 13 May 2008 16:57:42 +0200 TO: ALL STAKEHOLDERS Tuesday, 22 Apr 2008 - For immediate release On Friday 18 Apr 2008, the Registrar of Medical Schemes ("the Registrar") and the Council for Medical Schemes ("the Council") filed application for leave to appeal to the Constitutional Court, in the matter of Guardrisk Insurance Company Limited ("Guardrisk") and the Registrar and the Council. The matter concerns two of Guardrisk's policies, named AdmedGap and AdmedPulse. The Council and the Registrar contend that these products do the business of a medical scheme, which requires Guardrisk to be registered as a medical scheme and to comply with the requirements of the Medical Schemes Act ("the Act"). The Johannesburg High Court agreed with the Council and Registrar, interdicting Guardrisk from selling and marketing these products as it is not registered in terms of the Act. However, Guardrisk appealed to the Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) which, on 28 Mar 2008, overturned the judgment of the Johannesburg High Court. Legally, the matter turns on a technical point of whether paragraphs (a), (b) and (c) of the definition of "business of a medical scheme" in the Act should be read disjunctively [(a) OR (b) OR (c)] or conjunctively [(a) AND (B) AND (c)]. The High Court agreed with the Registrar and Council's contention that the former applies, whereas the SCA agreed with Guardrisk that a conjunctive interpretation should be applied. Although the legal dispute is technical, the matter has major practical and policy implications. The Registrar and Council contend that on the SCA's interpretation, about two-thirds of medical schemes currently registered under the Act would be excluded from its ambit. It would also create an enormous hole in the regulatory regime created by the Act which would be rapidly exploited by everybody keen to carry on the business of a medical scheme but free of regulation under the Act. Young and healthy lives will be attracted out of the medical schemes environment (or to less comprehensive medical scheme products), resulting in rapidly increasing costs for the older and less healthy who remain dependent on registered medical schemes for their cover - but now with significantly reduced cross-subsidisation from the young and healthy. The Registrar and Council contend that the Constitutional function of the Act to promote access to health care services in terms of section 27 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, and to promote non-discrimination and equality in terms of section 9 of the Constitution, will be seriously compromised if the SCA's interpretation is allowed to stand. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press_Release_4_of_2008_Guardrisk.pdf 22 Apr 2008 11:15:44 +0200 Private health cost increases are unsustainable and unjustifiable in significant respects. Without corrective government interventions, continuing cost escalation will have long-term impacts on access to health care through medical schemes. This is according to a report released on Thuday 3 Apr 2008 by the Council for Medical Schemes, which details its evaluation of the causes of medical scheme cost escalation and its recommendations on what needs to be done to contain the increases. Please click on the link to read the full report. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/ReportMedicalSchemeCostIncreases.pdf 03 Apr 2008 13:07:18 +0200 Thuday, 6 Mar 2008 - For immediate release 1. In a collaborative effort between the Department of Health and the Council for Medical Schemes, a consultative workshop was held with 250 stakeholder representatives at Gallagher Estate on 15 Feb 2008. 2. At this workshop, the terms of reference of the review of the PMBs were discussed, and stakeholders presented their views on the process that should be followed in this review. These presentations are available at www.medicalschemes.com under publications: PMB review 2008. 3. The attached "Terms of reference for the 2008 review of prescribed minimum benefits funded by medical schemes" reflects the outcome of these discussions. 4. The attached "Governance, process, structure and objectives of the 2008 PMB review" document further expands on the functional groups and specifies their activities and objectives. 5. Individuals who wish to participate on the functional groups review must please submit their names, specific skill areas and contact details to c.cairncross@medicalschemes.com before 12h00 on 12 Mar 2008. Please indicate in which of the functional groups you would prefer to participate, individuals May serve on more than one of the groups. 6. A functional group workshop will be held in Gauteng on 17 Mar 2008. Details of the venue and the programme will be sent to participants by 13 Mar 2008. The workshop will start with a plenary session where the activities of each of the groups will be elaborated on, after which work on these areas will start immediately. 7. The purpose of this workshop is to finalise the work contents and processes of the functional groups and to consider timelines for each of the sub-processes. The number and dates of future functional group meetings, as well as future large workshops involving all stakeholders will also be established at this workshop. REF Project Specialist: Council for Medical Schemes http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_6_of_2008_PMB_Review.pdf 07 Mar 2008 09:11:52 +0200 Tuesday, 19 Feb 2008 - For immediate release The Council for Medical Schemes has published the Quarterly Returns Report for Quarter Three. The report is available on the CMS website. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Quarterly%20Reports/CMS_Q3_Report_2007.pdf 20 Feb 2008 08:53:00 +0200 Monday, 18 Feb 2008 - For immediate release The Registrar of Medical Schemes Mr. Patrick Masobe, has today warned the Medicover Medical Scheme that he intends to approach the High Court for urgent relief to safeguard the interests of members in the event of the scheme proceeding with a Special General Meeting scheduled to be held in Bisho on Friday 22 Feb 2008. The warning to the scheme follows a letter by the Registrar to the trustees, dated 14 Feb 2008 wherein he advised that the failure by the trustees to comply with the rules of the medical scheme requiring that members be given 14 days notice of the calling of a Special General Meeting, had not been met and that the meeting would accordingly be invalid if held. Medicover, in spite of the concerns raised by the Registrar, proceeded to inform members via SMS during the course of the past weekend, of the venue for the meeting. The Registrar has advised the scheme that he will approach the High Court for urgent relief to safeguard member interests in the event of the trustees proceeding with the meeting. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press_Release_2_of_2008_Medicover.pdf 20 Feb 2008 08:50:54 +0200 Lawyers acting for the Council for Medical Schemes have sent a letter of demand to the Medical Chronicle in response to a defamatory article appearing in the Jan issue of this publication. To read the Newsflash detailing the above, please click on the link: You will need the Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the attachment. The reader May be downloaded from: www.adobe.com http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/News_Flash_01_of_2007.pdf 24 Jan 2008 12:44:25 +0200 Friday, 28 Dec 2007 - For immediate release The Registrar of Medical Schemes, Mr Patrick Masobe, has warned hospital groups that he intends to take them to court if they persist in their demands relating to 2008 tariff increases. For further information, please click on the Link. Kind regards Council for Medical Schemes Communications Unit http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press%20Release%208%20of%202007.pdf 28 Dec 2007 12:58:36 +0200 The Registrar of Medical Schemes, T. Patrick Masobe, has today published decisions made on approval of benefit options for the 2008 financial year for open medical schemes. Medical schemes are required by law to submit any changes to benefits and contributions to the Registrar for approval prior to these changes coming into effect. For 2007, some 186 benefit options in 37 open schemes have been assessed. 133 benefit options have been approved (or 72% of the total) and 49 options or 26% of total have been rejected and sent back to schemes for reconsideration. Full details, by scheme and benefit option, are available on www.medicalschemes.com under circulars. The Registrar advises members to exercise caution when signing for new benefit options for 2008 and to check that their schemes have received the necessary approval. We have again reminded schemes that no rule amendments shall be valid unless they have been approved by the Registrar, and have requested that they correct and resubmit the offending benefit options as soon as possible. To access the full Circular, please click on the Heading of this feed. http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Press%20Releases/Press_Release_7_of_2007_Benefit_Options.pdf 05 Dec 2007 09:55:02 +0200 The Office would like to inform all stakeholders that we are currently in the process of developing the IT specifications in respect of the 2008 quarterly statutory return. All schemes are therefore requested to furnish the Office with suggestions and comments.... http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/Circulars/Circular_45_of_2007_Quarterly_return_Changes%20_2008.pdf 30 Nov 2007 09:58:55 +0200 The Department of Health has published the National Health Reference Price List (NHRPL) for 2008. The list May be accessed on the DOH website. The link is also provided on the home page of our website.... http://www.doh.gov.za/docs/nhrpl-f.html 30 Nov 2007 09:57:29 +0200 The Council for Medical Schemes has published its Quarter 3 newsletter. This edition looks at issues of fraud in our ongoing series on the fit and proper status of officers of medical schemes.... http://www.medicalschemes.com/publications/ZipPublications/CMS%20News/CMS_News_2nd_Edition.pdf 30 Nov 2007 09:53:46 +0200