In this section
In the media
AfroCentric Group celebrates four years of delivering improved patient outcomes and lower costs with its pioneering Hospital at Home
AfroCentric Group’s (AfroCentric) innovative Hospital at Home service recently celebrated four years of delivering reduced hospitalisations, improved patient outcomes and lower costs for patients whose medical conditions would traditionally require hospital admission. The diversified healthcare Group was the first to provide the offering in Southern Africa.
Read more...From data to decisions: Leveraging AI for improved healthcare outcomes
South Africa's Medscheme processes over 12 million claims each month, with an average of more than three claims per beneficiary among its 3.9 million members. The large volume, speed, and diverse data involved classify these entities as big data. This sets medical schemes apart from other types of insurance because they deal with massive amounts of frequent transactions.
Read more...KIDNEY AWARENESS WEEK. HOW EFFECTIVE NETWORK MANAGEMENT IS SAVING LIVES
Amee Adonis Advanced Specialist: Health Facility Strategy Unit from Medscheme, an AfroCentric Group company writes about the power of healthcare network management in improving healthcare renal care outcomes for patients
Read more...Mental Illness awareness Month: Understanding the Distinctions and Trends in Mental Health and Mental Illness
Mental health and mental illness are often used interchangeably, yet they are distinct concepts. Mental health refers to our overall psychological well-being, encompassing our emotions, thoughts, and feelings, and it affects how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. In contrast, mental illness involves diagnosable conditions that impact a person's thinking, emotional state, and behaviour, such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Read more...Digital Disconnect: More Connected but More Alone
Loneliness has emerged as a silent epidemic among younger generations. While more than 43% of people over the age of 60 reported feeling lonely—usually attributed to living arrangements and a decline in social opportunities—studies have indicated that Gen Z (born between the early 1990s and early 2010s) is the loneliest generation.
Read more...Healthcare for the youth needs strategic shift to prevention, innovation in care and better delivery of services
The landscape of healthcare in South Africa is undergoing a profound transformation. While this transformation is largely focussed on the NHI and its implications we need not neglect everything else that is happening in the healthcare sector such as the state of health of our youth.
Read more...The Future is Now: Pharmacy Direct leads the way in Robotic Medication Dispensing
Pharmacy Direct Showcases the Future of Healthcare with its Automated Medicine Dispensing System
Read more...International Nurses Day Commemoration: Stalwart nurse builds second maternity clinic in Alberton
Diversified JSE listed healthcare company AfroCentric Group, has teamed up with Eluthandweni Maternity Clinic to launch a satellite branch in Alberton Mall.
Read more...AfroCentric supports universal healthcare but believes greater consultation is required on NHI
AfroCentric as an industry stakeholder and healthcare giant, supports the principles that underpin the movement towards universal health coverage in South Africa through an integrated health system that offers quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare.
Read more...Medscheme wins 17-year-old legal battle
AfroCentric Group company welcomes arbitration ruling against Neil Harvey and Associates
Read more...Harnessing hope: A call to tangible action on World TB Day
Dr Nkateko Msimeki, General Manager Health Policy and Medical Advisory from AfroCentric writes about the state of TB in South Africa and what we need to do to bring an end to this age-old disease
Read more...Skin cancer vs skin colour – More melanin may mean more protection, but risks remain
As summer wanes, South Africans are advised to always exercise caution when out and about. Skin cancer ranks as one of the most common cancers in South Africa, but what does that mean for a country with such a diverse array of skin colours?
Read more...Prioritise Your Well-Being: Preparing for Postpartum During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a joyous journey, but it's crucial to look beyond the anticipation of a new arrival and consider the mental health challenges that could come with it. While some new mothers experience what is known as the ‘baby blues’, one in seven women are at risk of developing post-partum depression – a more serious condition.
Read more...AfroCentric Group attains Top Employer Status in South Africa 2024
The AfroCentric Group, a leading player in South Africa’s healthcare sector, proudly attained its status as one of South Africa's Top Employers as designated by the globally recognised Top Employers Institute.
Read more...“25 years of HIV Management Excellence: AfroCentric Group ‘s Aid for AIDS (AfA) leads the charge to dismantle stigma and rebrand HIV”
As we observed World AIDS Day, it was both a moment of reflection on progress and a call to action for a crucial issue that still persists to this day. In Southern Africa, where HIV is the most severe globally, the battle against the virus extends beyond medical challenges and stretches to societal barriers built with judgment and fear.
Read more...Treating healthcare fraud and safeguarding SA's healthcare - shines a light on the alarming extent of healthcare fraud, waste, and abuse in South Africa this International Fraud Awareness Week.
For millions of South Africans, healthcare is among the top three expenses in our lives, trailing only food and shelter. In fact, the increases in healthcare costs are now at their highest rate since 2017. However, lurking beneath these rising costs is an uncomfortable truth – fraud, waste and abuse are significantly contributing to these high costs.
Read more...World Diabetes Day - SA should know the risks and respond with urgency
As we recognise World Diabetes Day, the 2023 "Know your risk, know your response" theme resonates profoundly in South Africa, especially considering the rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the country.
Read more...2024 Healthcare Trends - Prevention, Digital Access, and Patient-Centred Care
Aimée Wesso-Roberts from JSE-Listed AfroCentric Group unpacks the healthcare trends that are going dominate the industry in 2024
Read more...AfroCentric Group companies, Medscheme, Pharmacy Direct and AfA sweep the PMR.Africa Awards
Johannesburg – AfroCentric Group subsidiaries, Medscheme, Pharmacy Direct and AfA are thrilled to announce their outstanding success at the prestigious PMR.Africa Awards. These accolades are a testament to the staunch dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence exhibited by these healthcare industry leaders.
Read more...De Beers Group and AfroCentric Group extend health and wellness services to communities
The initiative aligns with government’s Checka Impilo campaign in partnership with the South African Business Coalition on Health and AIDS
Read more...Behind the smile: The silent struggle of high-functioning depression in women
Women are rightfully praised for their strength and resilience, yet their silent struggles often go unnoticed. Did you know that around twice as many women experience depression than men? The problem is many of these women will live their lives as normal without ever letting on that they suffer from high-functioning depression.
Read more...Redefining Healthcare: AfroCentric Group's vision for integrated solutions in South Africa
Job creation, load shedding and politics have traditionally taken centre stage in South Africa's list of priorities. Amidst the clamour, the crucial healthcare conversation seemed to have been overshadowed. However, recent developments surrounding the passing of the National Health Insurance (NHI) Bill by Parliament has brought healthcare back into focus.
Read more...Responsible AI integration demands a layered approach - Vukosi Sambo
The adoption and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly spread across our global economy encompassing pretty much every sector and industry. The recent developments in Large Language Models like ChatGPT has caused an even more exponential rise in use of AI, capturing the imagination of people around the world. Thanks to their broader utility- almost anyone can use these tools to communicate and create solutions with ease.
Read more...How Run-Grow-Transform has revolutionised digital transformation or pioneering digital transformation with Run-Grow-Transform
Avsharn Bachoo Group Technology Director at JSE-listed healthcare company, AfroCentric Group, unpacks the power of Run-Grow-Transform in the ever-shifting quest to digitally transform
Read more...Redefining Wellness in the Workplace
Corporate wellness has evolved significantly over the years. More businesses are recognising the importance of prioritising the health and wellbeing of their employees. Studies have shown that employees who are healthy are more productive, have lower absenteeism rates, and are less likely to file for disability claims. This has led many companies to invest in corporate wellness programmes to improve the overall health of their workforce.
Read more...Pioneering Digital Transformation with Run-Grow-Transform
Avsharn Bachoo Group Technology Director at JSE-listed healthcare company, AfroCentric Group, unpacks the power of Run-Grow-Transform in the ever-shifting quest to digitally transform
Read more...Sanlam concludes AfroCentric transaction
Sanlam today announced the successful conclusion of its transaction to acquire a controlling shareholding in AfroCentric Investment Corporation Limited (AfroCentric). AfroCentric is a black-owned investment holding company with significant interests in the healthcare market, including the Medscheme medical scheme administration business and a pharmaceutical business. The conclusion of the transaction has resulted in Sanlam acquiring a 60% shareholding in AfroCentric.
Read more...1000+ Patients and Counting: AfroCentric's Hospital at Home Programme sets new standards for Patient-Centered Care
In the healthcare industry, the conventional notion has long held that healing must take place within the confines of a hospital. However, as the demands for accessible and cost-effective healthcare continue to rise, healthcare practitioners and funders are being compelled to explore alternative approaches that can reduce the burden on traditional brick-and-mortar hospitals.
Read more...Ahmed Banderker: healthcare is still a budget priority
As finance minister Enoch Godongwana took to the podium for this year's budget address I knew healthcare would not take centre stage. The minister had to contend with a multitude of issues, chief among them being the worst energy crisis our nation has ever faced.
Read more...The Data of Care: A Game-Changer for the Healthcare Industry
Executive Head of Data Insights at the AfroCentric Group, Vukosi Sambo, writes about how data does more than just turn people into numbers… it saves lives
Read more...AfroCentric and Vision 4 Change bring vision to learners in Cape Town
Cape Town – To ensure more learners see the world clearer, JSE-listed healthcare group, AfroCentric, partnered with non-profit organisation Vision 4 Change to embark on the “Vision is Vital” campaign on 25 November 2022.
Read more...AfroCentric Group Chairman Dr Anna Mokgokong receives presigious 'Women Who Make a Difference' award
Johannesburg – AfroCentric Group is pleased to announce that its Group Chairman, Dr Anna Mokgokong, is recipient of the International Women's Forum's (IWF's) "Women Who Make a Difference Award" for the year 2022.
Read more...Extra support for advanced cancer patients through medical scheme innovation
AfroCentric Group subsidiary Medscheme's partnership with value-based care provider, Alignd, is transforming advanced cancer care delivery and enhancing patients' experience.
Read more...AfroCentric Group partners with Ekurhuleni - based clinic to raise breast cancer awareness
Johannesburg – SA's largest JSE-listed and black-owned healthcare group,AfroCentric, is for the fifth year the main sponsor of Eluthandweni Maternity Health Services' Breast Cancer Awareness Day, which takes place on Sunday, October 16, in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni.
Read more...Sanlam submits offer to acquire controlling stake in AfroCentric Group
Johannesburg – The AfroCentric Group announced today that Sanlam Limited has submitted an offer to acquire a controlling stake in the healthcare company.
Read more...Parents can play a meaningful role in their children’s mental health
In South Africa and across the world, a spotlight has been shone on mental health. Although the mental health epidemic in South Africa is affecting people of all ages, it is perhaps our children who are suffering in silence the most. A recent Unicef report found that 65% of young people with mental health-related issues do not seek help.
Read more...AfroCentric annual results reflect a commitment to consumers amid challenging conditions
Off the back of a challenging operating environment and economic uncertainty, AfroCentric has released its annual results for the period ending 30 June 2022.
Read more...Manage the costs of your medical aid to make the best of your coverage
Dr Mike Marshall, executive manager: research and product development at the AfroCentric Group, offers five critical tips to help South Africans make the most of their medical aid.
Read more...It is time to confront the mental health issues faced by men
Education, acceptance, and engagement – AfroCentric Executive Manager for Research and Product Development Dr Mike Marshall provides three crucial steps to help destigmatise men's mental health issues
Read more...AfroCentric AMPs up member and wellness engagement to create a healthier South Africa
Using advanced technology and behavioural science, SA's most diversified, majority black-owned health group listed on the JSE has a plan to improve the quality of health for South Africans – at no monthly subscription cost to members
Read more...AfroCentric Group appoints Avsharn Bachoo as Group Technology Director
Johannesburg – South Africa's most diversified, black-owned health group, AfroCentric, is delighted to announce the appointment of Avsharn Bachoo as Group Technology Director, effective from 1 May 2022.
Read more...AfroCentric calls on South Africans to get vaccinated against flu, COVID-19
Johannesburg - South Africans should prepare for the fast-approaching winter season by ensuring they get vaccinated against both flu and COVID-19, the AfroCentric Group said as it marked the start of World Immunisation Week.
Read more...AfroCentric earnings remain steadfast in the face of challenging economic and healthcare landscapes
Highlights:
Read more...Three ways to protect yourself from Covid-19 during the holiday season
Johannesburg, 21 December 2021 — Many South Africans are already enjoying the festive season, which has been made clearly evident by photos of Durban beaches already packed with holidaymakers. Although we should continue to enjoy the festive season, General Manager for Medical Advisory and Health Policy at the AfroCentric Group Dr Samukeliso Dube says: "We cannot lose sight of the fact that we are in a fourth wave driven by a variant that is highly transmissible."
Read more...AfroCentric expects 'wave of the unvaccinated' amid uptick in Covid-19 infections
Johannesburg — Continued vaccine hesitancy in South Africa, along with excessive complacency among those who have been vaccinated, is likely to be a key driver of the fourth wave of infections, the AfroCentric Group said today, with Group Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Banderker saying it is likely to be "a wave of the unvaccinated".
Read more...AfroCentric's Pharma Cluster boosts Group revenue as integration strategy yields positive results
Group declares 17c final gross dividend for investors
Read more...AfroCentric Technologies CEO Sello Mmakau wins global health award
JOHANNESBURG, 25 AUGUST 2021 – The AfroCentric Group is delighted to announce that AfroCentric Group Chief Information Officer and CEO of AfroCentric Technologies Sello Mmakau has been named a winner in the CEO Today Healthcare Awards for 2021.
Read more...A race against the clock to vaccinate South Africa's police force
Johannesburg, 5 July 2021 — Can 180,000 policemen and women get vaccinated before the 1 August? This is the mission of police force medical scheme Polmed, which provides health insurance to 80% of South Africa’s police force.
Read more...AfroCentric Group data confirms third Covid-19 wave
Surge in Covid-19 admissions seen in the Northern Cape, the North West, the Free State and Gauteng
Read more...Listed healthcare group to focus on vaccine & nurses' needs as possible third wave approaches
- JSE-listed AfroCentric Group has used its pull in the healthcare value chain to import 10,000 medical grade masks for DENOSA, handed over at an event today
- Group has received permission to operate multiple vaccination sites around South Africa, and gave media a first-hand view of their Roodepoort site today
AfroCentric Group ready for stage 2 of the vaccine rollout – starting with members over 60
Johannesburg, 20 May 2021 — AfroCentric Group has announced that they are ready to support efforts to roll out vaccines to its medical scheme members aged 60 and the remaining healthcare professionals left over from phase 1.
Read more...Opinion article – AfroCentric on COVID-19 vaccines educational drive
We need to vaccinate the mind before we vaccinate the body
Read more...Wait two weeks between your Covid-19 and flu vaccines, cautions AfroCentric
If you are in a high risk group and qualify for prioritisation, make sure you get both vaccinations, says one of SA's largest healthcare groups
Read more...AfroCentric’s healthy earnings: robust strategy bearing fruit
Johannesburg, 9 March 2021 — AfroCentric Group (JSE:ACT), an investment holdings company that owns and operates a diverse range of health-related enterprises, today announced a robust set of interim earnings for the six months ended 31 December 2020.
Read more...Three key ways the latest Budget Speech impacts healthcare in SA
Ahmed Banderker, CEO of AfroCentric Group, comments on yesterday's Budget Speech
Read more...AfroCentric partners with Navomix Health to roll out Covid-19 rapid testing at South African international airports
Rapid testing stations at OR Tambo and Cape Town International Airports now opened
Read more...AFROCENTRIC READIES ITSELF FOR VACCINE ROLL-OUT
South Africa's largest black-owned and diversified health solutions business, AfroCentric is proud to keep the frontline strong and vaccinated in the fight against COVID-19.
Read more...MEDSCHEME’S FIRST WAVE HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS DATA SETS EXPECTATIONS FOR HOW THE SECOND WAVE WILL SPREAD ACROSS SA
MEDSCHEME'S FIRST WAVE HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS DATA SETS EXPECTATIONS FOR HOW THE SECOND WAVE WILL SPREAD ACROSS SA
Read more...Medscheme sets up network aimed to reduce costs of cataract procedures
Behavioural Change Communication Strategy for Covid-19
Meeting Recording:
Click here to view meeting recording
Medscheme ready to deal with deluge of Covid-19 admissions
JOHANNESBURG, 16 July 2020 – As the number of confirmed coronavirus cases rises every day in South Africa, Medscheme – the largest health risk management services provider – has assured members of the schemes that it administers, that it is collaborating with all private hospital groups to make sure that those positively diagnosed with Covid-19 will get adequate medical attention and their hospitalisation will be covered. At the moment there is sufficient capacity.
Read more...We can beat Covid-19 by outsmarting our old habits and forming new and different ones
Tragic events shape people and nations. Communities and nations are changed by events. Covid-19 is changing our destiny, and the destiny of nations and communities forever, writes Anna Mokgokong.
Read more...OPINION: Is Covid-19 a good test for public-private partnerships and the future of NHI?
There is a saying that one should never let a crisis go to waste. At the end of the pandemic, we need to look at the learnings of all countries and apply them in the context of NHI, writes Ahmed Banderker.
Read more...Lessons on self-reliance
To ride out any storm effectively, one should be self-reliant and resilient. That means one has to anticipate problems and have possible solutions ready.
Read more...Lesson on self-reliance
Leadership on display
OPINION: Coronavirus calls on us to find new ways of doing business at home and abroad
We should continue the health education of promoting safer behaviours - hand washing, disinfection, masks, ventilation, and avoidance of risky contact and measures to strengthen our immune system, writes Anna Mokgokong
Read more...LET US COMMIT TO TACKLING THE SCOURGE OF MENTAL HEALTH IN 2020
By Dr Lungi Nyathi
They are popular bright youngsters with everything to live for. But behind the facade, some of our children live their lives with a sense of emptiness and self-loathing.
Read more...AfroCentric Group aquires Dental benefit management company Denis Group
JOHANNESBURG, December 12, 2019 - AfroCentric Group, South Africa’s largest health administration and medical risk management solutions provider, has acquired the dental benefit management company, Dental Information Systems Holdings Proprietary Limited (DENIS Group).
Read more...Medscheme wins international award
Medscheme, supported by AfroCentric Technology, has won an international award at the 2019 FICO World Decisions Conference for Decision Management Innovation, at an event held in New York.
Read more...AfroCentric Group donates a vehicle to help hospital school children
AfroCentric Group donated a vehicle to support the staff of the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Hospital School. The vehicle will provide much needed transportation for the children and teachers of the school.
Read more...AfroCentric group welcomes debate sparked by HMI final report
JOHANNESBURG, Sept 30, 2019 – AfroCentric Group, South Africa’s largest health administration and medical risk management solutions provider, has welcomed the release of the Competition Commission’s final Health Market Inquiry (HMI) report, its findings and recommendations. Amongst others, the report outlines some key issues relating to the over-utilisation of health services and facilities.
Read more...AfroCentric remains resolute on enhancing quality of life
Johannesburg, 16 September 2019 – Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) listed healthcare entity, AfroCentric Group, recorded a 25.7% increase in total revenue for the financial year which ended June 2019. Profit after tax was flat for the period and reflects the increase in gearing and amortization in the group. The results were driven by a strong performance of the Group’s healthcare retail businesses, which saw a 90.6% increase in operating profit. The Group also declared a final dividend of 17 cents per ordinary share for this period
Read more...AFROCENTRIC GROUP CALLS FOR A CALM, COGENT, PHASED INTRODUCTION OF NHI
JOHANNESBURG, August 23, 2019 – South Africa’s largest health administration and medical risk management solutions provider, AfroCentric Group, said while it supported affordable health care for all, the National Health Insurance (NHI) bill was still vague and implementation details, particularly funding were still uncertain.
Read more...Right of reply
Fraudulent activities, waste and abuse have forced the industry to be vigilant By Lungi Nyathi
Read more...Let's carry Maxeke's legacy by walking in her footsteps
A loving home for every child
Read more...
AfroCentric quietly builds the medicine chest
AfroCentric quietly builds medicine chest 1 t's not an obvious association, but AfroCentric, the listed BEE health care investment. Company that owns Medscheme, has quietly become the biggest dispenser of medicines by script volumes in the country. Through a deal with the department of health in 2018, the company's pharmacy courier unit, Pharmacy Direct, now dispenses more than 1 million scripts a month in KwaZulu Natal to public collection points.
Read more...The doc who worked 491 hours a day, and other tales of healthcare fraud
Medscheme healthcare forensics practitioner took this photo of a surgery, which was claiming R1m for medication despite the fact that the 'surgery' was not operating. Medical practitioners heard astonishing stories of fake medical aid claims at a summit discussing fraud in the industry, which started in Johannesburg on Thursday. Paul Midlane, general manager of healthcare forensics at Medscheme, listed several case studies, including a doctor claiming to work for 491 hours a day. Other examples included a medication claim for R1m from a surgery operating from a derelict building, a cardiologist who performed 856 angiograms out of 1,748 patients in one year (amounting to a R10m claim); an orthopaedic surgeon who got R1.6m for a claim that normally costs R5,182 and a biopsy that cost R44,800 when it should cost R1,450.
Read more...Allegations are incorrect and not factual – funds recovered benefit you the member…
There have been social media posts about billing of customers recently, these statements are inaccurate and not factual.
Read more...AFROCENTRIC’S VAN BUUREN RETIRES, TO BE SUCCEEDED BY SANLAM’S BANDERKER
JOHANNESBURG, Feb 13, 2019 - Antoine van Buuren, the Chief Executive Officer of AfroCentric Group, the provider of administration and risk management services to the health-care industry, will retire at the end of March, the company said on Wednesday.
Read more...ESWATINI National Provident Fund (ENPF), formerly SNPF, has acquired a 25 per cent stake in Medscheme Eswatini.
ESWATINI National Provident Fund (ENPF), formerly SNPF, has acquired a 25 per cent stake in Medscheme Eswatini.
Read more...Healing is made easier
HEALTH Minister Aaron Motsoaledi and AfroCentric Group chairwoman Anna Mokgokong opened a new chronic medication distribution centre yesterday.
Read more...Medscheme recovers millions in healthcare fraud, waste
JOHANNESBURG - Medscheme, South Africa’s largest manager of medical schemes, has recovered over R107 milllion claimed fraudulently and through waste or abuse and more than R300 million in reduced claims through forensic interventions, the company said on Sunday.
Read more...Resignation of Medscheme Holdings CEO and Appointment of new CEO
Johannesburg (17 January 2018) – AfroCentric Group announces the resignation of Mr Kevin Aron, the CEO of AfroCentric Group subsidiary, Medscheme.
Read more...Fight HIV-Aids in the workplace
KEITH Sososo, a worker at a food and beverage company, had a bright future until one fateful day in June when he told his boss a piece of devastating news he learned just the day before.
Read more...The JSE-listed AfroCentric Group is on an upward trajectory as it continues to expand its comprehensive portfolio
AfroCentric group and vision 4 change handover prescription glasses to alex learners
OPINION: Mental illness has serious ramifications for the workplace
JOHANNESBURG - As the Life Esidimeni saga and enquiry lays bare mental health challenges in our communities, why should employers consider psychiatric illness a workplace issue?
It is a reality that stress, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are all examples of mental health disorders which may impact on someone in the workplace.
More than 140 mentally ill patients died after they were moved from Life Esidimeni to Gauteng’s non-governmental organisations (NGOs). The NGOs were found to have been neither ready nor equipped to take care of patients with chronic psychiatric illnesses, according to a report by the health ombudsman, Professor Malegapuru Makgoba.
Read more...Healthy people contribute to a healthy economy
Should a government be concerned with its citizens' health, or only with their economic security and education? How much healthcare should be provided by the government, if any, and who should receive it? As we celebrate the fifth anniversary of the National Development Plan 2030 NDP, regarded as the country's most strategic initiative to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality, it is time for us to live by what former US president John F Kennedy told the world 56 years ago: "Ask not what your country can do for you ask what you can do for your country." Chapter 10 of Vision 2030, which deals with health, envisions a health system that works for everyone and produces positive health outcomes; is not out of reach. It aims to raise the life expectancy of South Africans to at least 70 years; ensure that the generation of under20s is largely free of HIV; significantly reduce the burden of disease and achieve an infant mortality rate of less than 20 deaths per thousand live births including an under five mortality rate of less than 30 per thousand. Everyone has a role to play.
Read more...Expanding reach of active disease risk management
Meeting Report One of the major challenges facing South African medical providers and funders alike is the lack of impact the country's services is having on the prevalence and management of chronic disease. in real-life situations. There are excellent self-management programmes for people with chronic disease," Ball added, explaining that Medscheme staff once attended the Stanford Chronic Disease Self-Management programme and are now licensed trainers within South Africa. On "paying for volume and not value": If one looks at quality in multiple practices, the variation in quality is often greater within a practice than between practices.
Read more...Shortage of doctors stretches health-care system to limit
AfroCentric donates vehicle to Vosloorus Maternity Clinic
The haleness of disruptive innovation
Should the health-care system change to save it? Yes, argues FARAYI CHINYANGA HISTORIANS remind us that we can't have a better tomorrow if we are thinking about yesterday all the time. We are advised that having a vision does not ensure greatness, but the lack of vision surely prevents it. The challenge in crafting a vision for a better tomorrow can sometimes be disruptive, which leads some people to ask whether we need to disrupt the health-care system to save it., The same question is being asked about National Health Insurance (NHI), and the extent to which its socioeconomic and political trappings are disruptive. The arrival of NHI can be linked to the concept of disruptive innovation, defined by author Scott Anthony as "something that creates a new market or transforms an existing one through simplicity, convenience, accessibility, or affordability".
Read more...Women's issues must stay in focus
WOMEN's Month in South Africa winds down, and with it the focus on issues pertinent to women will shift, until perhaps November 25 when we take up the cudgels again on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the launch of 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children.
Read more...Private healthcare industry set to play larger role in NHI
The private healthcare industry has the expertise and capacity to help the government improve public health under National Health Insurance (NHI), AfroCentric CEO Antoine van Buuren says, citing his company’s recent experience delivering medicines to state patients as a case in point.
Read more...Pharmacy Direct notice on delivery of medication
Fraud, abuse rife in private healthcare
Fraud, abuse rife in private healthcare Schemes pay more than 92% of contributions directly to expenses, writes Alf James private healthcare is a privilege few could afford without medical aid or health insurance. As the cost of private healthcare continues to escalate with above inflationary increases year on year, choosing a medical scheme able to control costs is critical, says Paul Midlane, GM: healthcare fraud and abuse at Medscheme, a subsidiary of the AfroCentric Group.
Read more...Learnerships and Internships
South Africa is facing a crisis. Unemployment is steadily rising and our scarce skills are consistently emigrating. The poor are getting poorer and the rich are getting poor. Every year, thousands of youth matriculate and thousands more graduate. We have highly energetic, passionate young people leaving their places of education and the reality is, they have nowhere to go.
Read more...AfroCentric Group and Medscheme bags three awards in one week
AfroCentric Group and its subsidiary, Medscheme, received three awards when the health and medical aid sector recognised them for efficiency, innovation, member experience and employee wellness in the industry.
Read more...Afrocentric Group and Medscheme Honoured for Innovation and Efficiency
JOHANNESBURG, July 20, 2017- The health and medical aid sector has honoured Medscheme, for efficiency, innovation and member experience in the industry.
Read more...Why you are paying more for less?
Public Private Partnerships, the COG for improving the health of our nation
By Antoine Van Buuren
"The wise and virtuous man is at all times willing that his own private interest should be sacrificed to the public interest,” said Adam Smith, the 18th century philosopher renowned as the father of modern economics, and a major proponent of Laissez-faire economic policies.
Read more...AfroCentric bursary offers to nurture medical students
Medscheme to Provide Additional Managed Care Services to SAMWUMED
Cutting medical aid costs for a win-win solution
Celebrating SAs business leaders
Largest medical scheme amalgamation gets green light
The much anticipated amalgamation between Bonitas Medical Fund (Bonitas) and LMS Medical Scheme (previously known as Liberty Medical Scheme) – the largest transaction of its kind in the SA healthcare industry - has received the stamp of approval by the Competition Commission and the Council of Medical Schemes (CMS), effective 1 October 2016.
Read more...AfroCentric posts profit increase
Women urged to open doors for others
Doc scores multibillion gas deal
More women role models needed
Medscheme honoured for service excellence in health administration and managed care
The haleness of disruptive innovation
'Strive to get into positions of power'
I can’t afford to have breast cancer
Shortage of doctors stretches health-care system to limit
Charlotte Maxeke school gets revamped
PARKTOWN – The Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Hospital School receives R800 000 in renovations.
Read more...SA’s top companies to collaborate with Vision 2030 Summit
Predictive modelling - a key to sustaining healthcare in the future
Liberating by educating
Making the most - that's Anna Mokgokong
B-BBEE - Who's going beyond compliance?
Market Cover
Two of South Africa's most prominent medical schemes, Bonitas Medical Fund ('Bonitas') and Liberty Medical Scheme ('LMS'), are in discussions to amalgamate to create an even stronger and more sustainable medical scheme that will provide enhanced cover and benefits to their respective members. If successful, the amalgamation will further entrench Bonitas' role as a leader in the healthcare market. Read more...
Proposed sugar tax outweighs hit to our pockets
Executive moves
'Even in tough times, the elephant must dance' - Sanlam boss
Bonitas and Liberty Medical Scheme set to merge, in industry's biggest ever transaction
Amazon puts roots in SA
Putting people first
US-SA business partners sought - Citizen Second Edition
Born for business
Read more...
Donation will help keep girls in school
What are benefits of M&A in today's competitive world?
Executive Moves
Sanlam acquires 28.7% stake in ACT Healthcare Assets for R703m
Sanlam media release
Sanlam is pleased to announce that the requisite approvals have now been obtained to complete the previously announced transaction for the acquisition of a 28.7% stake in the issued share capital of AfroCentric Healthcare Assets Proprietary Limited (AHA) for R703 million.
Read more...Executive Moves
Executive Moves
Read more...AfroCentric Health revitalizes small businesses
AfroCentric Health
Leading from the front
AfroCentric supports local business
Women do it themselves
Prominent South African businesswoman Dr Anna Mokgokong, who has been honoured across the world for her business acumen and contribution to her country’s socio-economic development, talks to African Independent about the gains and challenges facing African entrepreneurs.
Read more...Black economic empowerment takes a bow
Black industrialists are changing the rules of the game
Paving the way for sustainable healthcare
AfroCentric Health is committed to fostering a relationship between the private and public healthcare sectors for the benefit of all South Africans
Read more...4-steps to keep your staff happy and healthy
Medscheme awarded POLMED administration and managed care contracts
The Trustees of the South African Police Service Medical Scheme (POLMED) recently announced the award of both its administration and managed care contracts to Medscheme (Pty) Limited, a subsidiary of AfroCentric Health Limited, which in turn is a subsidiary of black-owned and controlled, AfroCentric Investment Corporation Limited (AfroCentric). POLMED provides medical benefits to employees of the South African Police Services (SAPS) and is the fourth largest medical scheme in South Africa covering some 500,000 beneficiaries.
Read more...Medscheme: Making an impact in the medical industry
Leadership talks to Medscheme CEO Kevin Aron, about the company and the state of the industry as a whole Leading South Africa's largest health risk management services provider and second largest medical aid administrator requires resilience and courage, according to CEO Kevin Aron.
Read more...New payment integrity platform to cut healthcare fraud in Southern Africa
Partnership between AfroCentric's Helios ITS and FICO pioneers a new approach to improve the integrity of SA's healthcare system.
Read more...Medscheme and SASES to Pilot New Funding Model
Medscheme and the SA Society of Endoscopic Surgeons (SASES) have revealed a joint plan to address the challenges associated with funding laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery.
Read more...Executive Moves
Wallace Holmes and Hannes Boonzaaier
Read more...Medscheme announces roll-out of an Electronic Medical Records platform - Less administration for GPs
Medscheme announces roll-out of an Electronic Medical Records platform - Less administration for GPs, more time to treat patients
Although the benefits offered by Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) to both healthcare professionals as well as healthcare administrators have long been recognised, uptake has been slow both locally and internationally. This now looks set to change as Medscheme, a subsidiary of the AfroCentric Health Group and South Africa's largest health risk management services provider, today announced its intention to roll out an EMR platform that will be available to all administrators.
Read more...AfroCentric Health Limited demonstrates victory in HR strategy
Bright future for black industrialists
'The world is your oyster'
The next chapter
Building a robust business empire
BY BUHLE NDWENI Internationally acclaimed entrepreneur Anna Mokgokong was recently honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the South African Premier Business Awards. A medical doctor by training, she has come a long way from her days as a medical officer at Ga-Rankuwa Hospital (now known as Dr George Mukhari Hospital) in the north of Pretoria.
Besides holding a number of directorships in listed companies, including AfroCentric Investment Corporation, which focuses mainly on the healthcare sector, pharmaceutical group Adcock Ingram and retail giant Shoprite, Mokgokong also sits on the boards of a number of private companies.
Read more...Black businessmen 'are too territorial'
Black men in top management positions in South African companies are still keeping the boardroom doors closed to women.
Read more...Dr Anna Mokgokong, Businesswoman and Philanthropist
Help us grow SA, Ramaphosa tells entrepreneurs
AfroCentric sees positive future
Accolades rain on Medscheme
Accolades rain on Medscheme at PMR Awards
Paving the way for community: Mokgokong receives top award
Scooters donated to fight Ebola
She's a capital leader in the world of business
SA wheels out Ebola response
SABC Capital City Business Leader of the Year Award winner announced
Sanlam - the most active insurer in M&A?
Sanlam has taken centre stage this week with the announcement of two transactions; one at home in South Africa with AfroCentric Investment and the other in Kenya, through its emerging markets arm.
Read more...Sanlam to acquire stake in AfroCentric Healthcare Assets Proprietary Limited
Two material deals position the group for growth
Deal between Sanlam and AfroCentric
AfroCentric gains for second day
Meet Dr Anna Mokgokong and her R18bn-a-year empire!
The doctor is in
Despite the weighty demands of a business empire spanning healthcare, technology, logistics, mining and energy, Dr Anna Mokgokong is dedicated to uplifting other women as well.
Read more...