Celebrating 20 years of care and affordable GEMS premiums

In celebrating 20 years of existence, Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) in collaboration with the Limpopo provincial government held the provincial and recreation Wellness activities at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, Polokwane 7 November.

Since its establishment, the medical scheme has over two million members affording government employees accessibility to health care with affordable premiums across all levels.

Celebrating the milestone, provincial departments were invited to participate in various sporting codes aiming at promoting employee fitness, mental wellbeing and social cohesion.

The day commenced with a 5km walk across the streets of Polokwane before gathering at the stadium for presentation on health matters and activities lined up for the day.

Giving background on the establishment and the milestone of 20 years, Acting Chief Strategy Officer from GEMS Mr Chiloane Molaba alluded to the scheme’s commitment to ensure that public servants are not excluded in receiving quality health care by building sustainable future, and creating value in a health care by remaining affordable medical scheme in South Africa.

In the 20 years of service, the scheme has not been spared from criminal activities by some members. According to GEMS Business Risk Manager, Mr Brian Molokeng Limpopo Province is sitting at number two spot as one of the corrupt regions.

Molokeng shared a light on cases that have been investigated which include false representation of actual members and dependants, as well as those colluding with medical practitioners including retail stores that allow members to fraudulently buy groceries using the medical aid.

With professional fitness instructors’ guidance, members got to participate in functional training, aerobics and soccer amongst others. The activities did not come without the prize of the top three departments in all categories of competition.

Winners included Department of Public Works, Rural Development and Agriculture Health, and Social Development. Employees were also spoilt for choice in health screening that included hypertension, diabetes and HIV. EC