Medical Aid for Children

Medical Aid schemes in South Africa do not allow children under the age of 18 to be the main members on a Medical Aid, but rather a dependant on an adult’s scheme that covers their health-related expenses. There are certain situations that make an exception to this rule, such as if the parent or guardian is deceased and there are sufficient resources from their estate to keep the child’s membership going.

Benefits suited for dependant children

If you are looking at adding your child or newborn to your Medical Aid plan, there are certain benefits that are good to have in place. Ideally, you’d like to have comprehensive in-hospital cover in case of medical emergencies, day-to-day cover for paediatrician visits and medication, as well as basic dentistry and optometry. It is important to look for the best benefits at the lowest price, without compromising quality.

Speak to your Medical Aid broker in order to discuss your family’s specific medical needs as they should be able to give advice on the benefits you would need and help you decide on the best option for your family. It’s also helpful to compare Medical Aid quotes from a range of different providers in order to find the best value for your requirements.

Find what you need from a Medical Aid by comparing plans online on Hippo.co.za. Look through the different options available to find a suitable Medical Aid for your children.

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Cover for growing kids

Medical Aid for Children – Frequently Asked Questions

Can children have their own medical aid policy?

No, children under 18 must be listed as dependants. In special cases, like death of a parent, the estate may cover membership.

What are the key benefits for children?

Look for in-hospital cover, GP visits, paediatric consultations, and basic dental and vision benefits.

How do I find the right plan for my child?

Speak to a broker to assess your child’s needs, then compare quotes using Hippo.co.za for the best value.

Choose the best plan for you

Everything you need to know about the right cover for your health needs.

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*Based on independent research by Kaufman Levin & Associates 2025.

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