Discovery Health Medical Scheme defers 2026 contribution increases to April

Discovery Health Medical Scheme (“the Scheme”) as announced a 7.2% weighted average contribution increase for 2026. Notably, 65% of members will experience only a 6.9% increase. In a continued effort to support affordability, the Scheme will defer all contribution increases to 1 April 2026, leveraging its strong solvency position to deliver R1.5 billion in direct savings to members.

In addition to this affordability focus, the Scheme is introducing two major enhancements for 2026:

• Smart Saver Series – A new range of plans tailored to meet the health and financial needs of young families. 
• Enhanced Personal Health Fund Benefits (adult members accumulate funds into their Personal Health Fund by completing ‘next best actions’ in their Personal Health Pathways, which can be used to finance their day-to-day benefits). 
• Members will benefit from: 
• More than double the earning limits available in 2025
• R1 000 opening balances for engaged members
• New personalised health challenges to support members in improving their long-term health and wellness.

Strong solvency defers contribution increases

Deferring the contribution increases for 2026 from 1 January to 1 April delivers significant value to members who will continue paying 2025-level contributions for
the first three months 2026.  For example, a family of
four on Classic Comprehensive will save over R5 100, while a family of three on Classic Saver will save more than R2 000 during this period.

This strategic deferral is made possible by the Scheme’s robust solvency position, which is driven by better-than-expected claims experience and returns on Scheme investments. “The Scheme remains acutely aware of the affordability pressures facing South African households. By deferring the 2026 contribution increase to 1 April 2026, the Scheme provides significant financial relief while continuing to deliver industry-leading healthcare benefits,” explains Dr Ron Whelan, CEO of Discovery Health – the administrator of Discovery Health Medical Scheme. 

DHMS has leveraged its robust solvency position previously, by deferring the contribution increase during the COVID pandemic three times –  in 2021, 2022 and 2023 – for members when it mattered most.

Introducing the Smart Saver series

Launching on 1 January 2026, the new Smart Saver plans set a fresh benchmark in affordable healthcare, tailored to the evolving needs of young, growing families. Smart Saver provides guaranteed cover for the healthcare services families use most – including GP consultations, optometry, dentistry, prescribed and over-the-counter medicine, and contraceptives. These are complemented by comprehensive hospital cover, maternity benefits, mental health support and oncology treatment within the Smart Network. 

Importantly, Smart Saver combines two powerful funding mechanisms: a Medical Savings Account and the Personal Health Fund giving families the flexibility to manage their healthcare spending.

Balancing affordability and innovation 

Discovery Health Medical Scheme remains deeply committed to balancing affordability with long-term sustainability, while continuously evolving to meet he needs of South African families. The 2026 contribution increase, launch of Smart Saver series, and enhancements to Personal Health Fund reflect this commitment in action. 

Disclaimer: This press statement is issued by Discovery Health (Pty) Ltd, registration number 1997/013480/07, an authorised financial services provider and accredited administrator of medical schemes on behalf of Discovery Health Medical Scheme, registration number 1125, which it administers.

Note: The Discovery Health Medical Scheme contribution increases and benefit updates for 2026 have been submitted to the Council for Medical Schemes for approval. Contribution increases will be effective from 1 April 2026, while benefit updates and new benefit options will be effective from 1 January 2026, subject to approval by the Council for Medical Schemes.