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Compare plans from 10 medical schemes in 2 minutes
Affordable plans from R1,155pm*
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*Based on an entry-level hospital plan for a single member. Capitated plans from R645pm. Quotes and prices are plan and profile dependent.
Compare 10 of SA's top Medical Aids
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How to compare Medical Aid quotes
Hippo simplifies the process by letting you compare plans side by side, so you can find reliable, affordable healthcare.
1
Get started
Head to the top of this page to get started with your quote.
2
Answer a few questions
We'll ask you for a few details to help us find the best plan for your health needs.
3
Get your quotes
Compare plans from 10 schemes. No need to enquire separately with multiple schemes.
4
Pick your plan
Choose an option, then a representative from Hippo Advisory Services will get in touch to finalise your cover.
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Dunno which plan to choose?
Medical Aid schemes in South Africa offer different plan types and benefits, each offering different levels of cover and flexibility.
Plan comparison
This table provides a clear overview of the differences between major types of plans.
| Key differences | Income-based Plan | Hospital Plan | Network Plan | Saver Plan | Comprehensive Plan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hospitalisation |  | | | | |
Day-to-day expenses | |  | | | |
Medical savings account | | | | | |
Network providers | | | | | |
Covers chronic illnesses | | | | | |
Plan benefits
Benefits are healthcare services that qualifying plans will either pay for in full or up to a set limit.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
Chronic illness cover | Ongoing cover for managing chronic conditions, including medication and specialist consultations for all PMB-listed diseases. |
Day-to-day benefits | Covers routine expenses like GP visits, medication, and pathology - typically through a Medical Savings Account or set annual limit. |
Maternity benefits | Cover for antenatal care, delivery, and postnatal support. An important benefit to compare if you're planning a family. |
Mental health support | Cover for sessions with registered psychologists and therapists. Session limits and reimbursement rates vary between plans. |
Dental and optometry | Routine dental and optometry benefits included in many plans. Orthodontic and laser eye surgery cover differs between schemes. |
Wellness and preventive care | Routine screenings like mammograms, pap smears and vaccinations; often covered without drawing from your day-to-day benefits |
Plan pricing
Medical Aid premiums vary based on your level of cover and benefits. Start by identifying the price range that works best for you.
| Hippo partner | Monthly premium range* | Plans under R1000pm | Plans under R2000pm | Plans under R3000pm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
BestMed | R1,736 - R12,572 | | | |
Bonitas | R1,603 - R12,509 | | | |
CompCare | R2,820 - R13,162 | | | |
Discovery Health | R1,278 - R12,338 | | | |
FedHealth | R1,155 - R19,393 | | | |
KeyHealth | R2,393 - R13,840 | | | |
Medihelp | R804 - R15,486 | | | |
Medshield | R1,821 - R9,489 | | | |
Momentum Health | R645 - R16,469 | | | |
Profmed | R2,477 - R14,634 | | | |
*Monthly premium range at the time of writing - June 2026
Your easiest way to find better medical aid
Helpful Medical Aid terms
PMB's
Prescribed Minimum Benefits - a set of 27 chronic conditions that all medical aids are legally required to cover.
Network providers
Specific GPs, hospitals, and pharmacies that you must use to access full benefits on certain plans.
Medical savings account (MSA)
A portion of your monthly contribution set aside for everyday medical expenses like GP visits and medication.
Choose the best plan for you
Everything you need to know about the right cover for your health needs.
Network and hospital plans
Compare in-hospital benefits and limits against comprehensive Medical Aid plans.
Medical Aid for families
Compare family-focused benefits for routine check-ups, emergencies and child wellness.
Medical Aid for children
Explore paediatric benefits from vaccinations to unforeseen medical emergencies.
Medical Aid for pregnant women
Understand specialised plans covering antenatal care, delivery and postnatal support.
Medical Aid for pensioners
Discover cover options for chronic care, specialist visits and long-term health needs.
Medical Aid for students
Navigate options tailored for young adults, that support their healthcare needs and budget.
Hippo Advisory Services is a licensed financial services provider (FSP 36088)
Medical Aid made simple.
Hippo’s top tips to getting more out.
Take the guesswork out of medical aid
Medical Aid FAQs
What is Medical Aid?
It's a form of healthcare cover that helps pay for your expenses; from routine doctor's visits to hospital stays and chronic medicine. In South Africa, schemes are run on a non-profit basis and regulated by the Council for Medical Schemes under the Medical Schemes Act. By law, all registered plans must cover emergency medical conditions, 271 conditions and 27 chronic diseases - known as Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMBs). Plans vary in cost and benefits, allowing you to choose a level of support that suits your health needs and budget.
How does Medical Aid work?
It operates as a mutual benefit system where members pay a monthly premium into a collective fund. This pooled fund pays for members' expenses according to the benefits and limits of their chosen plan. Surplus funds are transferred to scheme reserves for the benefit of all members. Depending on your cover type, you may access a personal savings account for day-to-day cover or pay some costs out of pocket once your limits are reached. New members may be subject to a 3-month general waiting period and up to 12 months for pre-existing conditions.
How much does it cost in South Africa?
Costs vary widely depending on the level of cover you need. Comprehensive plans with day-to-day benefits and hospital cover carry higher premiums, while more affordable options like hospital or network plans suit those on tighter budgets. Monthly premiums for entry-level hospital plans can range from +/-R1,000pm to several thousand Rand for savings and comprehensive plans. Note that higher premiums may apply if you join a scheme for the first time after age 35. Use Hippo to compare quotes and find a plan that balances cover and affordability.
What's The Difference Between Medical Aid and Gap Cover?
Medical Aid includes GP visits, hospital stays, chronic medicine and more, with all registered schemes required to provide PMBs. Gap Cover is a separate policy that works alongside your scheme. When healthcare providers charge more than your scheme's set tariff, Gap Cover pays the difference; protecting members from unexpected out-of-pocket claims. It's a valuable add-on for greater peace of mind, not a replacement for your scheme.
What is the best option for a family?
The right plan for your family depends on your unique health needs and budget. If your family needs all-round cover, including day-to-day benefits and hospital access, a comprehensive plan may suit you best. If affordability is the priority and you mainly need protection for hospital stays, a hospital plan offers a cost-effective solution. The happy-medium option is a savings plan, allowing for in-hospital cover and a savings account contribution for day-to-day medical expenses. Compare options side by side on Hippo to find the right fit for your family.
How do I cancel my plan?
Review your contract terms, most schemes require a notice period. Submit a written cancellation request to your provider, settle any outstanding payments and ensure there's no gap in cover if you're switching. Before cancelling, compare quotes from other providers on Hippo, you may find a scheme that better suits your current budget.
What scheme is the best?
There's no single answer; it depends on your health needs, lifestyle and budget. The best way to choose is to compare options from multiple schemes and weigh the benefits, exclusions and costs.
What's the difference between a scheme and medical insurance?
A Medical Aid scheme is a non-profit, pool-based healthcare funding system covering hospitalisation, doctor's visits, specialist care and more. Medical Insurance offers fixed benefit payouts for specific events or conditions and generally provides less comprehensive cover.
How will the NHI affect cover?
The National Health Insurance (NHI) aims to provide universal healthcare access to all South Africans, but the rollout is still in progress. Once fully implemented, the NHI may limit private schemes to covering services not provided by the state. For now, schemes remain essential for accessing private hospital care, avoiding long queues and getting faster treatment.
Compare more than just Medical Aid
With Hippo we make it easy to find great deals across multiple products.
Medical Gap Cover
Covers the difference (shortfall) between what your Medical Aid pays and what a specialist charges. Gap Cover is not a substitute for Medical Aid.
Medical Insurance
More flexible and affordable than Medical Aid, Medical Insurance covers day-to-day health needs or specific procedures. This product is not a substitute for Medical Aid.
Car Insurance
Covers your vehicle against damage, theft and third-party claims. Premiums vary by driving history, usage, vehicle model and where you park overnight.
Business Insurance
Protects your business’ property, assets and third-party liability. The right cover depends on the nature, size and risk profile of your operations.
Life Insurance
Provides financial security for your dependants. Ensure your home loan, rental costs, debt and children’s tuition are taken care of when you pass.
Funeral Insurance
Covers the immediate costs associated with a funeral. Premiums are influenced by your age, number of policy members and amount of cover.
Personal Loans
Compare rates across multiple lenders to find a fair deal. Rates vary based on your credit profile and chosen loan term, so comparison matters.
Home Contents Insurance
Covers your home's contents against damage, theft and loss. Compare quotes to find the most competitive rate.
Building Insurance
Covers the physical structure of your property against damage. Compare quotes to make sure you're not overpaying.
Motorbike Insurance
Covers your motorcycle against damage, theft and third-party claims. Premiums vary based on your personal profile.
Pet Insurance
Vet bills can add up quickly, especially when unexpected. Compare quotes to find a policy that fits your fur baby’s needs (and your monthly budget).
Travel Insurance
Protects you against unexpected medical and/or flight-related costs when travelling locally or abroad. Premiums vary based on the type of cover you opt for.
Home Fibre
Fibre prices and speeds vary significantly by area and provider. Find the fastest, most affordable package without contacting each provider separately.
Scratch and dent cover
Covers minor cosmetic damage to your vehicle without affecting your Car Insurance claims record. Compare plans to keep your car looking good without paying out of pocket.
Tyre and Rim cover
Covers the cost of repairing or replacing damaged tyres and rims. Compare plans to find affordable cover that protects you against one of South African motoring's most common expenses.
Motor Warranty
Protects you against unexpected mechanical and electrical repair costs after your manufacturer warranty expires. Compare plans to find the right level of cover for your vehicle.
Service Plans
Covers the cost of scheduled vehicle maintenance, including parts and labour. Compare service plans alongside your Car Insurance for a complete picture of your motoring costs.
Vehicle Tracking
Helps protect your vehicles by assisting with recovery in the event of theft. Many providers also use Vehicle Tracking to flag when your vehicle is in an unfamiliar area.
Hippo Comparative Services (Pty) Ltd is an authorised financial service provider.
FSP number: 16357. Block A, Steyn City Capital Park, Erling Road, Riverglen, Dainfern, 2191
*Based on independent research by Kaufman Levin & Associates 2025.
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